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: New growth is reddish. No thorns.
Wildlife: The flowers attract hummingbirds. The seed attracts 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.
Soil: Well draining, pH 5.6-8.5 (acidic to alkaline). This plant is saline tolerant.
Water once established: Deep water once or twice a month.
Prune: After spring bloom. 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, but that should be done only after the spring bloom.
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.

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