Guide to growing garden plants - Martynia Unicorn Plant
Martynia grows to a height of 60cm to 1.8M and are half hardy annuals.
They have large leaves and carry pretty flowers that resemble orchids.
Additionally their spiky fruits can be used in dried flowering arrangements.
Common names for Martynia include Unicorn plant.
Martynia annua by Lalithamba; creative commons.
Martynia annua - Devil's claw by Jayesh912; creative commons.
Quick Martynia Growing Guide and Facts
Common Names: Unicorn Plant, Tiger Claw Plant, Devils claw, Cat's claw.
Life Cycle: Half hardy annual.
Height: 24 to 60 inches (60 to 150 cm).
Native: Americas.
Growing Region: Zones 7 to 10.
Flowers: Summer.
Flower Details: White, pink, yellow, purple; speckled with other colours. Orchid-like. Tubular. Smelly.
Foliage: Heart-shaped/Cordate.
Sow Outside: 1/4 inch (6 mm). Following the last frost. Spacing 12 inches (30 cm).
Sow Inside: Soak seeds overnight. Germination time: three to four weeks. Temperature 70°F (21°C). Seven or eight weeks before expected last frost. Transplant outdoors following the last frost.
Requirements: Full sunlight or light shade. Good drainage. Rich soil. Can survive in dry soils.
How to grow Unicorn plant
Unless you live in an area that has long summers it is best to start growing unicorn plants indoors first. If growing the plant outdoors then sow unicorn plant seeds at a depth of 6mm after the last frost of spring. They can grow in either a sunny or partially shaded area of the garden, but require good drainage. Ideally grow unicorn plants in rich soils.
When growing unicorn plants indoors first then start about 7 or 8 weeks in advance, They typically take about three weeks to germinate at 21 to 24 degrees centigrade. They should be transplanted into the garden in spring about a week after the last possible chance of frost at a spacing of 30cm.
Caring for unicorn plants
Unicorn plants and other Martynia members look after themselves and are able to tolerate dry conditions so regular watering is not required.