The Himalayan Lantern
Agapetes serpens is a rare evergreen shrub native to China and South East Asia. Agapetes prefer a humus rich moist but well drained soil and part shade.
Also known as the ‘Himalayan Lantern’, and with attractive bright red flowers on arching stems can be used in a hanging basket, container grown or even trained as a weeping standard plant.
Very attractive to nectar loving birds and preferring a slightly acidic soil the flowers in winter to spring are appreciated in many gardens.
With its weeping habit you can grow these colorful plants in a hanging basket or a container or with a little work turn it into an interesting standard.
A wonderful aspect are the pretty pretty pale mauve berries that form after the flowers, looking like glistening pearls they are an attractive addition. The thickened base of Agapetes serpens x rugosum forms a textured caudex over time, another feature.
A. serpens ‘Nepal cream’ is a cultivar with pretty cream flowers, as far as we know not available in Australia at present.
How to Grow Agapetes Serpens
This is an epiphytic plant that produces a lignotuber, its root system is shallow and with its arching habit it can be grown in hanging baskets if pruned.
- Choose a sunny position with light afternoon shade.
- Best in a humus rich well drained soil.
- Plant with the root system just below the surface to avoid root problems.
- Water regularly during hot dry periods.
- Protect from hot drying winds and hit summer sun.
Pruning Agapetes serpens
Little to no pruning is required, a humus rich moist well drained soil with a little shelter from hot sun and drying winds. Mulch well and water in dry periods. Propagation is from seed or cuttings.
Agapetes serpens are available for sale from the following nurseries
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au
Other Species include :
- Agapetes sempervirens,
- Agapetes ‘Ludgvan Cross
- Agapetes meiniana is the only Australian Agapetes