The Brazilian Plume Flower
Justicia carnea is a brilliant flowering shrub originally from Brazil. They have been in Australia for a long time in sub tropical gardens and are only now making a comeback. Thriving in warmer climates, in cooler areas they are treated as tender perennials.
With flowers held above nice green foliage in summer. this is a plant that will reach around 2m and from the names ‘Flamingo Plant’ and comes in 3 flower colors pink, red or white flowers.
The white flowering form makes a great highlight in a shaded position in a tropical or sub tropical garden. And yes they will grow as far south as Melbourne given a warm position.
How to grow Justicia carnea
Best suited to warmer climates, justice carnea is fost tender and is often grown as an indoor plant in the cooler areas of Australia. A position on a patio with plenty of filtered light and some warmth will do nicely. In the warmer climates these wonderful flowering plants can be grown outdoors.
- Climate
This is really a tropical to sub tropical plant however in can be grown in cooler climates in good conditions. - Temperature
Ideally a temperature range from 18 to 35C and a winter temperature that remains above 10C. If grown in a first free zone in a protected position in can cope with lower winter temperatures. - Position
Best grown in dappled shade, but not deep shade. - Soil
A well drained humus rich soil that retains some moisture. Dig in extra compost and aged cow manure before planting. - Mulch
Mulch around the plant well to minimise weeds and moderate soil temperature especially in winter. - Watering
Water well once the weather warms up in spring. In winter cut back on watering especially in colder climates. - Fertiliser
Use a slow release fertiliser in spring. A little liquid fertiliser in late spring through summer can also be beneficial.
Pruning Justicia carnea
Prune back after flowering to maintain shape. Justice carnea can also be hard pruned back to near ground level if needed.
Varieties
- The species Justica carnea is pink flowering
- Justica carnea alba is white flowering.
- Justica aura is a yellow flowering species that will reach around 2m, summer flowering best in full sun to part shade in warmer conditions.
Summary
- Humus rich moist soil.
- Filtered light.
- Fertilise regularly.
- Mulch well to maintain a cool root run.
- Although this regarded as a tropical to sub tropical flower it can be grown in cooler climates if you protect it from cold and from frosts.
Propagation
Easy to propagate from cuttings, when taken from late spring through to late summer the cuttings seem to strike fairly easily although a hormone powder can hasten root formation.
Justica Carnea is available for sale from the following nurseries
300 Oxley Drive Coombabah QLD 4216
Located on the north end of the Gold Coast at Runaway Bay. The 6 acre site is home to Queensland's biggest & best garden centre. Selling in volume direct to the public. Focus on top quality both in our plant & pot ranges.
www.rossevansgardencentre.com.au