Iochroma cyaneum

Violet Tubeflower, Blue Iochroma

Message of the Flower

Seeking the Light in the Lower Vital

The Mother’s Comment

Does more work, makes less fuss.

Spiritual Message by the Mother/ Quotes by Sri Aurobindo

The lower vital aspires by offering all its small movements in the fire of purification, by calling for the light and power to descend into it and rid it of its little greeds, jealousies, resistances and revolts over small matters, angers, vanities, sexualities etc. to be replaced by the right movements governed by selflessness, purity, obedience to the urge of the Divine Force in all things.

Sri Aurobindo, Letters on Yoga - IV: The Lower Vital Being

Colour

Deep purple

Family

Solanaceae

Cultivars

Sky King', 'Royal Blue', 'Burgundy Wine'

Person who named the flower

M.L. Green

Flower Size

2-3 inches long

Flower Texture

Soft and velvety

Number of Petals

Fused petals forming a tube

Floral Symmetry

Radial

Fragrance of Flower

Subtle, sweet

Leaf Texture

Softly hairy

Leaf Arrangement

Alternately arranged along the stems

Leaf Color

Grey-green to green

Structural Variation (Shrub or Tree)

Small tree or shrub

Life Cycle

Perennial

Blooming Period

Summer to fall

Climate

USDA zones 9b to 11

Water Requirements

Regular watering needed

Soil Type

Well-drained, fertile

Temperature Ranges

Temperate to warm

Sun or Shade

Full sun to partial shade

Susceptibility to Insects and Diseases

Spider mites, powdery mildew

Pollinators

Hummingbirds and bees

Habitat

South America, especially Ecuador and Peru

Role in the Ecosystem

Provides nectar for pollinators

Quotations

No specific myths or stories

Ornamental

Not applicable

Uses in Other Aspects of Life

Not endangered

Endangered Status

Sensitive to cold and excessive moisture