Description
Form: Shrub.
Leaf retention: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate.
Mature Size: 2-4' (60-120cm) high and wide.
Flowers: Tubular, lower lip curled back, in red, pink, orange, yellow or white, with
spots usually seen on the inside of the tube.
Bloom: Winter.
Fruit: Hard, woody, four-chambered nut with four seeds.
Leaves: Silvery green, oval-shaped. May acquire reddish tint in winter.
Stems: No thorns. New growth is reddish.
Wildlife: Attracts hummingbirds and birds.
Toxic / Danger: Leaves can be toxic to grazing livestock.
Origin: Australia.
Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 8b-10.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun to part shade. Part shade reduces blooms.
Water once established: Deep water once or twice a month.
Soil: Well drained, pH 5.6-8.5 (acidic to alkaline). This plant is saline tolerant.
Prune: After spring bloom. It flowers occur on the tips of the previous year's growth.
Allowing it to grow "spiky" after a spring trimming provides the fullest bloom the following winter.
It handles shearing well.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Cuttings. The seeds are difficult to germinate.
Uses: Ornamental, hummingbird garden.
Comments
This plant is a member of the Figwort family (Scrophulariaceae). Another common name is
Valentine Bush for its tendency to be in full bloom on Valentine's Day.
This species is highly variable in appearance.
Do you have additional information or a different experience for these plants that you would
like to share? Email info@GardenOracle.com. All contributions are welcome and appreciated.