Mariposita Schizanthus is a delightful heirloom flowering plant that brings a burst of intricate, butterfly-like blooms to summer gardens in hardiness zones 9-11. Reaching just 18 inches tall with a compact 12-inch spread, this member of the Solanaceae family produces flowers in 56 to 84 days from seed to bloom, typically flowering from June through August. Its name hints at its winged appearance: Mariposita means 'little butterfly,' and the blooms truly resemble tiny, colorful butterflies dancing on delicate stems. Deer leave it untouched, and pollinators seek it out, making it a living bridge between your garden and the natural world.
Full Sun
Moderate
9-11
18in H x 12in W
—
Moderate
Hover over chart points for details
Schizanthus grahamii delivers an extraordinary display of delicate, orchid-like flowers with intricate markings and patterns in shades of pink, purple, white, and bicolor combinations. The blooms emerge continuously throughout the summer months on airy, 18-inch stems that create a ethereal, cloud-like effect in borders or containers. Its deer resistance and magnetic appeal to pollinators mean you get a worry-free spectacle that actively supports beneficial insects. The relatively quick journey from seed to first flowers, 56 to 84 days, rewards patient gardeners with summer color that feels both exotic and effortless.
Mariposita Schizanthus is grown primarily for ornamental display in flower gardens, borders, and containers where its delicate, butterfly-like blooms can be admired up close. The intricate flowers make striking cut arrangements, though their petite scale suits them best in small bouquets or mixed displays where their detailed patterning can be appreciated. In regions with mild winters (zones 9-11), gardeners often cultivate it as a summer flowering plant in full sun locations where its compact habit and pollinator-friendly nature enhance garden vitality.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
For indoor seed starting, stratify seeds for 30 to 60 days before planting. Mix seeds with damp clean sand or vermiculite, place in a plastic bag, and refrigerate at 35 to 40°F. Check frequently for germination and transplant seedlings as soon as they emerge rather than waiting for all seeds to sprout, since germination is erratic. This cool, moist pre-treatment breaks dormancy and dramatically improves germination rates.
Transplant seedlings outdoors 2 to 3 weeks before your last spring frost date once they have developed true leaves and nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F. Space plants 1 inch apart in full sun with well-drained soil. Harden off seedlings gradually over 7 to 10 days before moving them to their final garden location.
Direct sow seeds 2 to 3 weeks before the last spring frost date, or use winter sowing by placing seeds in pots of well-drained media outdoors in late winter. Seeds require light exposure and cool stratification to germinate reliably, so direct sowing works best when soil temperatures are cool and moisture is consistent.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.