Thursday 4 February 2021

JACOBINIA

A member of the Acanthaceae family, the Brazilian plume flower or jacobinia (Justicia carnea) is a shade-loving, soft-wooded shrub (ht 1.5m) with large, lush leaves. Thick plumes of white, pale pink or deep pink tubular flowers appear in regular flushes from early summer to late autumn. A form with dark purplish underleaves is known as 'Radiant' - perhaps more correctly should be called 'Huntington Form'.

Justicia carnea needs hard pruning in late winter, and regular dead-heading during summer will help to promote new blooms. It will also flourish in sunny spots but is useful for shaded sites, as are so many of the Acanthaceae family, which do so well in temperate climates. Whilst it will stand neglect, it responds well to feeding and watering. It is easily propagated from cuttings. It is a good companion to hydrangeas, Plectranthus species, ferns and camellias. The white form looks pretty with silver-leaved companions, such as Plectranthus argentatus and Pilea cadierei. 

This post is part of the Floral Friday Fotos meme.


2 comments:

  1. This is a nice blossom, really !
    It is interesting to read how you have to look after these plants and even promote offspring,

    ReplyDelete
  2. Stunning jacobinia blooms. It would be my pleasure if you share you post on my link up party Garden Affair where you can share pertaining to gardening, nature and wildlife http://jaipurgardening.blogspot.com/2021/02/garden-affair-visiting-nursery-in-spring.html

    ReplyDelete

Feel free to comment, I'd really like to hear from you!
Please do not use this comment box to advertise your goods and services!