Plants in this genus are native to rocky, dry sites in the Mediterranean. Vigorous and bold, these architectural plants are grown for their striking foliage and flowers. Dark green oblong to lance-shaped leaves reach to 36 inches long. Flowers are borne on 4-foot-tall racemes with spiny bracts and sepals in combinations of white, green, yellow, pink, or purple.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsFlowers are good for cutting and drying.
CareTolerates most any soil in sun or partial shade, but prefers deep, fertile, moist but well-drained, organically rich soil.
PropagationSow seeds in spring, divide plants in spring or autumn, or take root cuttings in late autumn or early winter. Sow indoors in full or filtered light. Outdoors, sow in any soil in sun or partial shade.
ProblemsPowdery mildew, fungal and bacterial leaf spot
