Quaker's Bonnet
Quaker’s Bonnet, also known by its scientific name Gomphocarpus physocarpus, is a novelty flower that has been becoming increasingly popular with hobby gardeners and professional landscapers alike. Native to the eastern part of Southern Africa, this annual flower is known for its hairy green pods that resemble Quaker style hats and give off an almost furry appearance. Long stems with multiple pods on each can reach a maximum height of about 6 feet under the most ideal conditions. When in bloom, Quaker’s Bonnet is characterized by white, bell-shaped, butterfly-like flowers with purplish veining in the center. The flowers give way to the unique, furry pods over time that can live through winter and reseed in the spring when handled properly.
Gomphocarpus physocarpus should be given thorough waterings when the surface of the soil begins to dry out. Too much water is as hazardous as not enough, and can promote fungal growth. For best results, saturate the soil and allow it to almost completely dry out before watering the plant again.
Quaker’s Bonnet prefers to be placed in a location with plenty of bright light, but not full, direct sunlight. An area with morning sun may help keep the plant looking its best. This plant can also be grown indoors if in an area that receives a considerable amount of daylight hours.
Fahrenheit: Quaker’s Bonnet prefers to be in temperatures between 4 and 25 °C (39 to 77 °F). It should never be exposed to consistent temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F). Celsius: Gomphocarpus physocarpus should be in temperatures between 4 and 25 °C (39 to 77 °F). Plants should never be exposed to temperatures below 10 °C (35 °F).
Quaker’s Bonnet is fairly tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and should not require additional misting or humidifying equipment. The air does need to be kept moving to prevent fungal growth, though, so a fan should be placed in the same room as this plant.
Gomphocarpus physocarpus does best in soil that is well drained and slightly acidic. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. If the soil is too heavy, it may need to be amended with organic matter to increase drainage.
Fertilize Gomphocarpus physocarpus about once every 2 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. It should be diluted to half strength and applied directly to the soil or foliage. Water thoroughly after fertilizing to avoid burning the plant. Do not fertilize during the winter dormant period.
Several common pests are attracted to Gomphocarpus physocarpus. The most common of these pests are aphids, caterpillars, and earwigs. Aphids can generally be eliminated with a mixture of water and dish soap sprayed onto the plant's leaves. Caterpillars are usually detected early and can be removed manually or allowed to be eaten by the many birds that they attract. Earwigs can be deterred by placing pieces of wood mulch near the base of the plant.
Quaker’s Bonnet does not need to be repotted frequently. It will typically outgrow its pot every 1-2 years. When this happens, wait until late summer or early fall when the plant is in its dormant period and thoroughly water the soil before repotting it in a pot one size larger.
Quaker’s Bonnet doesn’t require much pruning, but regular deadheading of flower stalks and seed pods can help encourage more blooms to appear. Since the dead pods add visual interest in winter, they can be left if desired.
Mulch can be beneficial in helping to keep the soil moist and cool. A 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant should be adequate.
Gomphocarpus physocarpus can be propagated by seeds or by cuttings. To propagate by seeds, they should be sown in a well-drained soil in late summer or early fall. When propagating by cuttings, a cutting with 3-4 leaves and a portion of stem should be taken and placed into a well-drained potting mix. Plant cuttings in the spring or summer when humidity levels are likely to be higher.
Gomphocarpus physocarpus is typically tall enough that it will require some kind of support. A stake or other sturdy object near the base of the stem will help keep the plant erect and prevent breakage during windy weather.
Since Quaker’s Bonnet is an annual, most of the life cycle is devoted to producing flowers and seed pods. Once the plant has gone through these stages, it goes into a dormant period that lasts through the winter. During this period, the plant should be exposed to less water and should not be fertilized.
Quaker’s Bonnet may be toxic if ingested by pets or children. It is recommended to keep it away from both parties, or place it in a location that is out of pets' and children's reach.