The genus Strobilanthes encompasses 250 species of perennials and shrubs from woodland edges in Asia and Madagascar. They are cultivated for their showy flowers, which are tubular to funnel-shaped, sometimes hooded, 2-lipped, and come in shades of blue, purple, white, or (rarely) yellow, or for their attractive leaves. Grow in a border, as bedding, or in a greenhouse.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsTubular or funnel-shaped, 2-lipped flowers in blue, purple, white, or yellow.
CareIn the garden, grow in light, fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Pinch to encourage a bushy habit. Indoors, grow in full light with shade from the hot sun. Water freely during the growing season, but moderately in winter.
PropagationFrom softwood cuttings in early summer, or semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer or late summer. Use bottom heat. Or layer in late summer.
ProblemsRoot rot and spider mites may sometimes be troublesome.
