A low growing plant used as ground cover plant, Lechenaultia formosa is sometimes called the Red Lechenaultia.
With brilliant red flowers that rise above the foliage, this is a hardy plant in a well drained soil and an open position with good sun and good airflow.
Three flower colours are available, the red flowering form as well as an orange form and a yellow form. Different growth habits are also common, some more upright than others, some prostrate and ground hugging, although all low growing.
You may also like the Blue Lechenaultia
Care
The main factors in growing this plant are good drainage and low humidity. Outside of its natural range this an best be achieved by growing the plant in a tallish container using a free draining native plant potting mix.
The height of the container will help with air flow and reduce humidity as well as lift the folderol red flowers into full view.
This is not a plant that demand a lot of fertiliser, one annual application of native plant fertiliser should be sufficient.
Propagation
This is a fairly short lived plant in cultivation however propagation from cuttings is fairly easy. Propagation from seed is also possible however this is usually difficult with low germination rates.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Lechenaultia formosa
- Common Name – Red lechenaultia
- Position – Full sun to a little shade.
- Soil – A well drained soil is essential
- Height – To around .4 metre
- Spread – To 1m in good conditions, usually less.
- Flowers – Brilliant red.
- Flowering Time – Autumn
- Foliage – Mid green
- Frost tolerant – Mild frosts
- Drought tolerant – Yes