Welcome to Gardening in South Africa!

Picture courtesy Green Acres Nursery CaliforniaDescription, History & Interesting Facts:

This delightful perennial herb belongs to the Iris family and the genus consists of primitive irises with many species, all native to the Americas. S. bellum is a native of California where it is widely distributed on open, grassy slopes. It grows in sand to clay on coastal bluffs to interior grasslands and has small, iris-like leaves and masses of delicate star-shaped blue flowers in summer.

Sisyrinchium x bellum 'E. K. Balls' is readily available in South Africa and is a hybrid that is shorter and more compact growing than most blue-eyed grasses, growing about 10 to 15cm tall and as wide. The flowers are a particularly deep blue and are borne on short stems, slightly above the foliage, in summer.

In the Garden:

This plant will tolerate quite high traffic and can be trodden on, making it lovely along pathways and in pebble and rock gardens. It also makes an excellent border plant. The Blue Eyed Grass will add whimsy or a natural touch to any landscape and does quite well in forgotten nooks and crannies.

Cultivation/Propagation:

Blue-eyed Grass is hardy to frost and is semi-evergreen; it strives to be evergreen through winter but is usually pretty far gone by the time spring re-growth begins. Clear away any dead foliage in early spring and mulch with compost around the plants, but not directly on top of them. 

Once established this little plant is drought tolerant but will grow best in the garden if watered moderately.  It's method of dealing with drought is to go dormant. It must be planted in full sun where it will grow 10 to 15cm tall and as wide. This plant tolerates sandy or clay soil as well as seasonal flooding.

Sisyrinchium x bellum 'E. K. Balls' does not seem to self-seed like most blue-eyed grasses so it is either a sterile hybrid or has a very low germination rate for the seeds. But it can be quite a vigorous clump and if it likes its location it will need to be dug up and divided about every three or four years.

Picture courtesy www.steyns-nursery.co.zaCondensed Version:

Shrimp plants are easy to grow evergreens which will bloom almost continually in warm climates . The flowers emerge from bracts which start out white, but with more sun exposure turn anywhere from pale pink to deep salmon. Small white flowers with speckled maroon throats emerge from the bracts. 'Yellow Queen' has gorgeous yellow bracts; and 'Lime and Pink' is a hybrid with unusual lime and pink bracts.  They are best suited to warm frost free areas which receive good summer rainfall; thriving in humid sub-tropical regions. They grow well in coastal gardens if protected from strong wind; and in the winter rainfall regions will require regular watering in summer. Shrimp plants will tolerate moderate frost if planted in a protected part of the garden and the roots are mulched in winter; and if they are cut right back by frost will generally shoot again in spring. They can reach 1 to 1.5m tall and 60 to 90cm wide, and can be planted in sun, semi-shade and shade; in hotter, drier conditions they will appreciate protection from the fierce midday sun. They adapt to most garden soils but do best in well drained sandy or loamy soil. Regular light trimming or tip pruning will keep the plants bushy and neat, and encourage repeat flowering.  Because of their long flowering season shrimp plants are wonderful additions to the small shrub or flower border and sunny rockeries. They also grow well in a container and can look spectacular in a hanging basket.

"Yellow Queen' Picture courtesy www.steyns-nursery.co.zaFull Version:

Description, History & Interesting Facts:

Justicia is a genus (family) of evergreen perennials, shrubs and sub-shrubs with about 600 species, occurring in a wide range of habitats in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide and from temperate North America. Justicia brandegeeana is native to Mexico; has naturalised in parts of Ecuador and Florida, USA; and is widely cultivated elsewhere. The shrimp plant is a shrubby evergreen perennial, reaching 1 to 1.5m tall and 60 to 90cm wide, with weak branching stems. The soft green leaves are egg-shaped and downy on the underside.  It is commonly known as shrimp plant because of the colour and shrimp like appearance of its inflorescence. The flowers emerge from bracts (modified leaves) that form off the stems. They start out white, but with more sun exposure turn anywhere from pale pink to deep salmon. A chain of bracts will continue to grow until it falls off naturally; thus the chains can grow anywhere from a few inches to nearly 35cm in length. Small white flowers with speckled maroon throats emerge from the bracts; and the two stamens have dark mauve anthers. Flowering is most prolific in summer; and in warm climates blooming can be almost continuous. In their natural habitat the flowers are usually pollinated by hummingbirds and attract butterflies to the garden. 'Yellow Queen' has gorgeous yellowbracts; and 'Lime and Pink' is a hybrid with unusual lime and pink bracts.

Uses:

The Huastec people of Mexico used Justicia brandegeeana as a traditional medicine for treating a variety of ailments, including dysentery and other gastrointestinal disorders as well as for treating wounds.

In the Garden:

Shrimp plants are widely cultivated in in tropical and subtropical gardens around the world and in cold regions they are grown in conservatories. Because of their ability to tolerate low light and some neglect, they thrive indoors and remain a popular indoor pot plant. Because of their long flowering season shrimp plants are wonderful additions to the small shrub or flower border and sunny rockeries. They also grow well in a container and can look spectacular in a hanging basket. This plant has received an Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.

'Lime and Pink' Picture courtesy www.steyns-nursery.co.zaCultivation:

The shrimp plant is best suited to warm frost free areas of the country which receive good summer rainfall; thriving in the humid sub-tropical regions. It grows well in coastal gardens as long as it is protected from strong wind; and in the winter rainfall regions it will require regular watering in summer. Although it dislikes temperatures below 7 °C it will tolerate moderate frost if it is planted in a protected part of the garden and the roots are mulched in winter; and if it is cut right back by frost it will generally shoot again in spring. In warm, moist regions it can be planted in full sun to semi shade; and will even tolerate full shade as long as it is not dark, dense shade. In hotter, drier conditions it will grow best in semi-shade to shade and appreciates protection from the fierce midday sun.  This plant adapts to most garden soils but does best in well drained sandy or loamy soil. Although it is reasonably drought tolerant, it looks best if watered regularly during the summer months. The shrimp plant is relatively low maintenance and if mulched with compost regularly, does not really need extra fertilisation, but an occasional feed with a balanced fertiliser won’t do any harm.  If left unpruned this plant can become long and spindly, but regular light trimming or tip pruning will keep the plant bushy and neat, and encourage repeat flowering.

Propagation:

Semi-ripe tip cuttings  5 to 7.5 cm long will root easily in spring.  Place each cutting in a small pot containing a moistened mixture of equal parts of peat moss and coarse sand or perlite, enclose the pot in a plastic bag, and keep it in bright filtered light.  Rooting should occur within 6 to 8 weeks.  Water sparingly, and do not move the pot into direct sunlight for another month or two.

Pests & Diseases:

This shrub is seldom plagued by pests or diseases but keep a look out for red spider and aphids.

Known Hazards:

None known.

See Large Plants

Description:

The bloody crane's-bill is native to Great Britain and southern Europe, ranging all the way to northern Turkey, and today it is widely cultivated in gardens around the world. Several cultivars have been bred, with flower colours including: white, purple-magenta, paler pinks and streaked colours.

It forms low-growing clumps of deeply-lobed leaves that are more distinctly cut than other geraniums, giving the plant a delicate appearance. This beautiful, large-flowered evergreen perennial has the unfortunate common name of bloody crane's-bill. The bloody bit refers to its foliage which turns a bright crimson in autumn, and the Latin name “sanguineum” means 'the colour of blood'. Crane's-bill derives from the appearance of the fruit capsules of some of the species.

This plant will flower profusely in spring, with the flowers completely covering the leaves. It will also flower sporadically through summer and into autumn.

Click here to see Google images of Geranium sanguineum

In the Garden:

The bloody crane's-bill is long-lived and does not require a lot of care, making it a good low maintenance groundcover. The plants spread slowly, making them suitable for growing in perennial flower borders and in small rockeries.  Their rootstock is strong making this geranium perfect to stabilise the soil on slopes.

Nectar from flowers attracts butterflies and bees.

Cultivation/Propagation:

The bloody crane's-bill grows easily throughout the country in full sun or light shade, but in very hot and dry regions it can be planted in semi-shade. It is hardy to frost, but in very cold regions it will die down completely in winter. If the roots are well mulched to protect them from freezing, they will shoot again in spring.

Plant it in fertile well-drained soil and water weekly during dry spells. The bloody crane's-bill will grow about 25 to 30cm tall with a spread of 30 to 40cm wide. In midsummer, rejuvenate your plants by removing old flowering stems and leaves, and feeding with a balanced fertiliser, and applying a mulch or compost.

Propagation may be done by collecting seed, stem rooting in water, semi-ripe wood cuttings in summer, or by root division in autumn or spring. Collect seeds throughout the summer, then sow in spring or early summer for flowers the following summer.

Problems, Pests & Diseases:

The bloody crane's-bill  suffers from no serious insect or disease problems but there is some susceptibility to leaf spots and rust, especially in humid regions.

Warning:

Geranium sanguineum has no toxic effects

Physostegia 'Crystal Peak White' Picture courtesy Ball StraathofCondensed Version:

The obedient plant valued for its late season blooms, is beautiful in pots and valuable for adding contrast to the perennial border. Like mint, it loves moist soil, and will tolerate wet conditions beside a water feature, stream or pond.

It grows well throughout most of the country, but is not well suited to humid regions, and in dry summer regions it will require regular watering in summer. It is a hardy plant which can tolerate some frost, enabling it to bloom into autumn, but as soon as the winter temperatures plummet, it becomes totally dormant until spring. In severely cold regions, mulch the soil in autumn to protect the rhizomes from freezing.

The obedient plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, particularly if it’s grown in a hot region. To flower really well it needs a minimum of 6 hours sunlight a day. This perennial needs to be watered regularly, and especially during long, hot and dry spells.

Although in its native range the obedient plant can be found growing in woodlands and prairies with moist, well-draining soil, it is considered a bog plant, and if grown in these conditions, it prefers soils that are slightly acidic, typically ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. In normal garden beds the best soil pH is acid to slightly alkaline (pH 5.5 to 7.5), and the plant will adapt to chalky, sandy, loamy, and even heavy clay soils if they are amended with compost.

Because the obedient plant thrives in fertile soil that holds moisture well, it may become aggressive in overly rich soil. To control its spread plant it on a drier, less fertile site and avoid using fertilisers. On sandy or impoverished soils, applying a complete fertiliser each spring together with a mulch of compost around the roots should suffice to keep the plant healthy and blooming.

Prune it right down in autumn and divide the plants every 3 years or so, if necessary.

Full Version:

Description, History & Interesting Facts:

In South Africa obedience plants have not been easy to find for a long time and still aren’t. Just like everything else, garden plants seem to go in and out of fashion, and this wonderful old fashioned plant may just be making a come-back. 

With plant breeders once again recognising its potential in the garden, lovely new varieties have been developed overseas, and at home some garden centres have started stocking a lovely new dwarf white form called Physostegia ‘Crystal Peak White’.

It’s an award winning dwarf form of the obedient plant which only grows about 40cm tall and remains nice and compact. Its tall, pure white flower spikes bloom for an extended flowering time from mid-summer to early autumn, making this variety an excellent addition to the front of mixed perennial beds and borders, and particularly delightful in containers. 

The original form of Physostegia virginiana is a robust and easy to grow North American native perennial plant that belongs to the mint family, and grows almost anywhere - from Quebec to Florida to New Mexico! It is commonly called the “Obedient Plant” because each individual flower can be moved and arranged in different positions and will stay where you put them. It's a fun little trick to show people, and children are fascinated by this! Another common name is “False Dragonhead”.

The plants are upright, growing around 90cm tall when in bloom, and are clothed in lance-shaped, finely toothed leaves. The leaves and flowers are arranged on distinctly square stems, and it spreads by rhizomes to form an attractive and colourful plant in the garden. In summer, but especially in late summer and autumn, upright spikes of very pretty, snapdragon-like two-lipped flowers appear, attracting butterflies and other beneficial pollinators to the garden. Early garden varieties of the obedient plant come in lovely pastel shades of rose, lilac, lavender, pink or white.

In the Garden:

The obedient plant remains a popular perennial in many countries around the world, and is valued for its late season blooms at a time when the garden may not look at its best. It is beautiful in pots and valuable for adding contrast to the perennial border. Like mint, it loves moist soil, and will tolerate wet conditions beside a water feature, stream or pond.

Garden cultivars, like the newer dwarf varieties, are better behaved than the original forms of the obedient plant, which, unlike their common name, can become aggressive in the garden if they like where they are growing. Nevertheless, even when planting the newer types, bear in mind that they do spread quite quickly, so give them lots of room to grow - maybe in a naturalistic setting like a cottage garden or wildflower border.

The flowers attract many pollinators, and are excellent for cutting, lasting well in the vase.

Physostegia virginiana, Salt Lake City, Utah. Picture courtesy Andrey Zharkikh from flickrCultivation/Propagation:

The obedient plant grows well throughout most of the country, but is not well suited to humid regions, and in dry summer regions it will require regular watering in summer. It is a hardy plant which can tolerate some frost, enabling it to bloom into autumn, but as soon as the winter temperatures plummet, it becomes totally dormant until spring. In severely cold regions, mulch the soil in autumn to protect the rhizomes from freezing.

The obedient plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, particularly if it’s grown in a hot region. To flower really well it needs a minimum of 6 hours sunlight a day. To look at its best in the summer garden this perennial needs to be watered regularly, and especially during long, hot and dry spells.

Although in its native range the obedient plant can be found growing in woodlands and prairies with moist, well-draining soil, it is considered a bog plant, and if grown in these conditions, it prefers soils that are slightly acidic, typically ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.

In normal garden beds the best soil pH is acid to slightly alkaline (pH 5.5 to 7.5), and the plant will adapt to chalky, sandy, loamy, and even heavy clay soils if they are amended with compost.

Because the obedient plant thrives in fertile soil that holds moisture well, it may become aggressive in overly rich soil. To control its spread plant it on a drier, less fertile site and avoid using fertilisers. On sandy or impoverished soils, applying a complete fertiliser each spring together with a mulch of compost around the roots should suffice to keep the plant healthy and blooming.

Prune it right down in autumn and divide the plants every 3 years or so, if necessary.

Problems, Pests & Diseases:

Physostegia virginiana has minor issues with rust, spider mites, and aphids.

Warning:

Physostegia virginiana is not considered toxic to humans or animals.

Although it is often grown near water,  pond fish are unlikely to eat it due to the oil-rich idioblasts that exist on its leaves and in its stems and roots. These produce a flavour that is evidently unpalatable, as evidenced by wildlife and insects tending to avoid this plant.

Phlox paniculata Image by Sonja Kalee from PixabayCondensed Version:

Perennial phlox hybrids come in amazing hues of: purple, lavender, pink, salmon, scarlet, blue and clear white. Some cultivars even produce lovely bi-coloured flowers that have a brightly coloured centre "eye" with contrasting outer colour on the margins of the petals. The sweetly scented blooms are clustered in dense panicles and are rich in nectar.

The plants form upright clumps about 60 to 120cm tall with many branched stems clad with narrow, dark-green lanceolate leaves which occur opposite one another, that can spread up to 50cm or more. Years of breeding, have resulted in shorter, more garden-worthy cultivars

Perennial phlox grows best in temperate regions with good summer rainfall, and is hardy to cold and frost as it becomes dormant in cold winter regions, with fresh growth emerging again in spring. In warmer winter regions, when daylight hours are shortened, it may also enter a period of dormancy, or become semi-dormant. It is not suited to very hot and humid regions, where it is susceptible to fungal diseases. However, newer varieties have been bred to be more resistant to diseases. Perennial phlox it also not really suitable for hot and arid summer regions, and in our winter rainfall regions it will need to be watered regularly.

To grow phlox successfully plant in full sun to very light shade, and in moderately fertile, loamy or sandy, soils which retain moisture but also drain well. The plants need to be watered regularly, Keep the soil evenly moist, but do not overwater, and avoid overhead watering. The shallow roots need to be kept cool with a layer of mulch.  Feed with a good general purpose fertiliser for flowering plants in spring.

Good air circulation is essential for healthy growth, so give the plants plenty of space to spread, and the plant should be pruned regularly through the peak growth period. In regions which experience extended frosts and heavy snowfall, the entire shoot system should be cut back to just 2 to 5cm above the soil in winter, and the roots must be mulched.

Phlox paniculata Picture courtesy Nu-leaf NurseryFull Version:

Description, History & Interesting Facts:

Phlox is a genus of 67 species of perennial and annual plants in the family Polemoniaceae. They are found mostly in North America in very diverse habitats, from alpine tundra to forest borders and open woodland, to prairies.

The wild varieties of perennial phlox have flowers in two-tone shades of mainly pink and white, as well as solid pink or pure white. All our beautiful garden hybrids are bred from these, and come in amazing hues of: purple, lavender, pink, salmon, scarlet, blue and clear white. Some cultivars even produce lovely bi-coloured flowers that have a brightly coloured centre "eye" with contrasting outer colour on the margins of the petals. The sweetly scented blooms are clustered in dense panicles and are rich in nectar, making them much-loved by bees, butterflies and birds. After pollination the flowers develop into dry seed capsules.

Perennial phlox is considered a classic option for flowering borders, and is also commonly known as “tall phlox” garden phlox”, “summer phlox”, and “border phlox. Unlike the annual phlox (Phlox drummondii), perennial phlox (Phlox paniculata), will come back year after year, providing flowers for many seasons.

The plants form upright clumps about 60 to 120cm tall with many branched stems clad with narrow, dark-green lanceolate leaves which occur opposite one another, that can spread up to 50cm or more. This herbaceous perennial will go dormant or semi-dormant in late autumn or early winter, and remain so until spring, when fresh growth appears.

The popularity of perennial phlox, and years of breeding, have resulted in shorter, more garden-worthy cultivars that flower in a variety of different colours, and dozens of cultivars have received the Royal Horticultural Award of Garden Merit (RHS) and remain extremely popular with hybridizers.

The 21st Century Series of Phlox is a good example of a modern and vastly improved variety that is vigorous, growing about 50 to 60cm tall with a spread of about 35cm, and for many months in summer and autumn it will produce its irresistible clusters of delicate blooms in shades of dark to light pink, purple and white.

Phlox paniculata Image by Maria from PixabayUses:

Like many other vivid and fragrant plants, Phlox paniculata has medicinal uses as well. Extracts from its leaves are reportedly used to treat boils, and as a laxative and treatment for stomach pains. The vegetative parts can be used to make tea for the treatment of indigestion.

In the Garden & Home:

Among the Phlox species, Phlox paniculata is the only one that is considered edible, and because the flowers taste slightly spicy and sweet, rather like that of sugar snap peas, they are often candied to decorate cakes and desserts, or used as a colourful garnish for fancy cocktails, salads, and summer soups. Needless to say, the flowers with their sturdy stems also look stunning in flower arrangements!

An added bonus is that perennial phlox is non-toxic and safe to plant in children’s gardens, and places frequented by pets and wildlife.

Unsurprisingly, drawn to the flowers by both their colours and fragrance, perennial phlox attracts all sorts of pollinators, including bees, butterflies and moths, and even nectar eating birds.

This summer favourite brings high-impact colours, especially when it receives full sun. It is a versatile species which fits effortlessly into modern garden styles, herb and vegetable gardens, or traditional cottage gardens. It can be cultivated as a tall ground cover or as a small bushy plant, making it perfect for flower beds or borders, rockeries, and mass plantings.

Perennial phlox combine well with many other herbaceous perennials, and for a more contemporary look, combine them with ornamental grasses.

Phlox paniculata Image by Monika Schröder from PixabayCultivation:

Perennial phlox grows best in temperate regions with good summer rainfall, and is hardy to cold and frost as it becomes dormant in cold winter regions, with fresh growth emerging again in spring.
In warmer winter regions, when daylight hours are shortened, it may also enter a period of dormancy, or become semi-dormant.

It is not suited to very hot and humid regions, where it is susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew. However, newer varieties have been bred to be more resistant to fungal diseases, and you can mitigate problems of heat and humidity by adding mulch to keep the root zone cool. Perennial phlox it also not really suitable for hot and arid summer regions, and and in our winter rainfall regions it will need to be watered regularly.

To grow phlox successfully plant in full sun to very light shade, and in moderately fertile, loamy or sandy, soils which retain moisture but also drain well.

Although not extreme water guzzlers, they need to be watered regularly, as the plants have fine feeding roots at soil level. Keep the soil evenly moist, but do not overwater, and to help prevent diseases avoid overhead watering, or water early to give the foliage sufficient time to dry out before nightfall. The shallow, fine roots also need to be kept cool with a layer of mulch, which should be topped up regularly. Feed with a good general purpose fertiliser for flowering plants in spring.

Good air circulation is essential for healthy growth, and helps to prevent both pest infestations and fungal diseases, so give the plants plenty of space to spread and grow. To induce continuous branching and vegetative growth, the plant should be pruned regularly through the peak growth period. Thin out spent flowering stems regularly, cutting them as far down the stem as possible, and if there are any signs of pests or diseases, dispose of the cuttings in the rubbish bin and not the compost heap.

If your area experiences snowfall, or in regions which experience extended frosts and heavy snowfall, the entire shoot system should be cut back to just 2 to 5cm above the soil in winter, and the roots can be mulched to prevent freezing.

Weed regularly around your plants so that weeds do not sap its strength or rob it of the water it needs to get through the summer. Weeds also harbour many pests.

Phlox paniculata Picture courtesy Nu leaf NurseryPropagation:

Perennial phlox can be planted using its seeds, vegetative cuttings, or rooted divisions. Propagation using cuttings and divisions is the easiest method. 

Tip cuttings should be at least 4cm long. To hasten root production, they can be treated with a rooting hormone and then placed in a setup that receives around 12 hours of light.

Once seedlings or cuttings are large enough to withstand outdoor elements or have developed their first branches, they can be transferred to their permanent outdoor positions. Make sure to space them correctly to leave room for their branches. Branching can be induced by “pinching” young plants. This is done by removing the growth just above a node with buds.

Propagation by division of the plants in early spring is simple. Dig the plants out of the ground and split the large clumps into smaller clumps using a sharp knife, before replanting.

Seeds must be cold stratified before they are planted by placing them into a bag mixed with lightly moistened sand, and placing them in a refrigerator for about 1 to 2 months. Sow into trays filled with seedling soil and cover with a thin layer of soil. Germination can take 1 to 3 weeks when temperatures range from 15 to 20˚C. You can also sow seeds directly into garden beds in spring, as soon as the ground can be worked, covering them with 2mm of soil. Once germination takes place the seedlings should grow quickly and mature at around 90 days.

Problems, Pests & Diseases:

If grown correctly perennial phlox are largely pest and disease-resistant. Even their biggest problem, a disease known as powdery mildew, is rarely fatal but it can spoil their looks a bit. Powdery mildew can be quite challenging, especially in humid areas, and although modern hybrids are bred to be more resilient to disease, powdery mildew can still be a problem if the plants are planted too densely or watered too enthusiastically from above.
Click here to read more about powdery mildew

Young seedlings may need protection from slugs and snails.

When conditions are too hot or too dry spider mites can also become a major pest problem for this species. If infestations are severe, the plant may have to be treated with an organic pesticide.
Click here to read more about spider mites

On a lighter note, spacing out individual plants to ensure good air circulation, and regularly pruning can greatly reduce the chances of pest infestations and diseases. This also affords the branches more sunlight, leading to a higher abundance of flower heads.

Warning:

Phlox is a non-toxic plant which is safe for people with children and pets. It is not toxic to farm animals or wildlife either.

Strobilanthes dyerianus. Picture courtesy Ali Eminov See their flickr pageCondensed Version:

The stunning quilted leaves of the Persian shield work well as a contrast plant in the garden.

It loves humid climates and does well in coastal gardens if sheltered from strong winds. In frost free regions it is grown as a short lived evergreen perennial. It is not very frost hardy, but in climates that are not too cold, it can be grown in protected spots away from cold winds, and where there is a tree canopy overhead. In areas with mild frost the plant may die back to the ground, but will often regrow the following season. In very cold and frosty regions this plant is grown as a summer annual, or as a potted patio plant which is brought indoors to overwinter.

In cooler regions it can be grown in lots of sunshine, but in hotter summer regions it thrives in semi-shade to shade, and needs protection from the hot midday sun.  It is a thirsty plant, and will quickly droop if it doesn't receive adequate water, but it typically bounces back quickly after a drink.

It adapts to most fertile and well drained garden soils, but thrives in the neutral range of soil pH, to slightly acidic soil. If grown in rich soil the Persian shield should only need light feeding at the start of the season and again about midway through the summer.

Since Persian shield is grown for its foliage and the flowers are not particularly showy, many gardeners like to pinch them off to encourage more leaf growth. 

If kept indoors the Persian shield requires bright, indirect light to keep its colour. Make sure it has humid conditions, as dry air will cause the leaves to dry and drop. Placing a humidifier nearby, or placing the pot on top of moist pebbles in a drip tray, as well as misting the plant down daily is recommended, but be sure to use soft water, as chlorine will damage the leaves. A good potting soil should suffice for potted plants, and they can be fed occasionally with a liquid fertiliser during summer. Pinch back the growing tips if the plant is becoming a bit big and leggy, and re-pot young plants annually until they reach their maximum size, then repot every other year.

Strobilanthes dyerianus. Picture courtesy SCFiasco See their flickr pageFull Version:

Description, History & Interesting Facts:

Persian Shield has been grown both indoors and outdoors since Victorian times for its ornamental foliage, and it is easy to see how it was given the common name “Persian shield”, as it is flashy, with a purplish iridescence and silvery metallic sheen, and the bold green stripes along the veins of the leaves gives them the appearance of little battle shields. Each leaf can reach 10 to 18cm long and 7.5cm wide. Its common name is misleading, as it is not native to Persia, a historic region of southwestern Asia, which is now modern Iran, but rather to Myanmar (formerly called Burma).

This soft stemmed exotic shrub is primarily grown for its uniquely coloured leaves, but in warm climates it will produce pale blue flower spikes anytime from December to May.  However, budding is erratic and the factors that trigger reproduction are not understood. If grown in subtropical regions it can reach 1.5m tall with a spread of 2.5m, but in colder regions it will develop into a small shrub a little over 1m in height, with a spread of 80cm. 

In the Garden & Home:

Coleus may be the go-to foliage plant for some gardeners, but the stunning, quilted leaves of the Persian shield work equally well, making it a ‘go-to’ plant for shady spots in subtropical and tropical gardens worldwide. In frost free regions the Persian shield is treated as a short-lived evergreen perennial and it will develop into a lovely small shrub. In cold winter regions it is often planted out as a summer annual and used to add tropical flair to garden beds and pots.   

The Persian shield makes a stunning focal point as it stands out in any planting, and is particularly striking when paired with soft grey-greens, or yellow-greens ‘chartreuse’. Try planting it with coleus like the one with lime green leaves, and purple veins and margins.

For for a dramatic tropical effect, mix Persian shield with caladiums, elephant ears, or cannas. It also pairs nicely with silver shade-loving plants like dead nettle (Lamium). Members can click on the highlighted text to read more about the plants mentioned.

In cold winter climates potted plants can be brought indoors and grow as houseplants through the winter, and moved back outdoors in the spring. In fact, the Persian shield is a very popular houseplant in colder regions of the world.

Cultivation:

Persian shield loves humid climates and does well in coastal gardens if it is sheltered from strong winds. In these warm, frost free regions it is grown as a short lived evergreen perennial. It is not very frost hardy, but in climates that are not too cold, it can be grown in protected spots away from cold winds, and where there is a tree canopy overhead. In areas with mild frost the plant may die back to the ground, but will often regrow the following season. In very cold and frosty regions this plant is grown as a summer annual, or as a potted patio plant which is brought indoors to overwinter.

In the cooler mist belt regions of South Africa the Persian shield can be grown in lots of sunshine, but in hotter summer regions it thrives in semi-shade to shade, and needs protection from the hot midday sun.  It is a thirsty plant, and will quickly droop if it doesn't receive adequate water, but it typically bounces back quickly after a drink. The less water the Persian shield plant gets the more shade it will need. Mulching the roots will help to conserve moisture.

It adapts to most fertile and well drained garden soils, but thrives in the neutral range of soil pH, to slightly acidic soil. Try to keep the pH between 5.5 and 7.5. If grown in rich soil with plenty of moisture the Persian shield should only need light feeding at the start of the season and again about midway through the summer.

Pruning:

Since Persian shield is grown for its foliage and the flowers are not particularly showy, many gardeners like to pinch them off to encourage more leaf growth.  If left to grow on its own the plant can get tall, leggy, and floppy, so gardeners lightly pinch out some of the growing tips in spring  to create a fuller plant. Pruning is not required if you are growing it as a summer annual.

Propagation:

Taking cuttings is the best way to keep these lovely plants in your garden for long periods, by replacing them every few years with newly struck plants. Being soft stemmed, the Persian shield will propagate fairly easily from softwood cuttings taken in spring and early summer.

You can also start Persian shield from seed, but they require somewhat warm conditions between 13 and 18°C to germinate.

Indoors:

If kept indoors the Persian shield requires bright, indirect light to keep its colour. Make sure it has humid conditions, as dry air will cause the leaves to dry and drop. Placing a humidifier nearby, or placing the pot on top of moist pebbles in a drip tray, as well as misting the plant down daily is recommended, but be sure to use soft water, as chlorine will damage the leaves. Grouping it together with other tropical plants with the same growing requirements will create a tiny microclimate and benefit all the plants.

A good potting soil should suffice for potted plants, and they can be fed occasionally with a liquid fertiliser during summer. Pinch back the growing tips if the plant is becoming a bit big and leggy, and re-pot young plants annually until they reach their maximum size, then repot every other year. Root-prune older plants when re-potting, to control their size, and take cuttings every couple of years, as the mother plant can become very leggy and unattractive and should be discarded at this stage and replaced with the new cuttings.

Problems, Pests & Diseases:

Persian shield is generally pest and disease free, and is not usually susceptible to fungal disease or other problems with the foliage, except for water stress and spotting.

Red spider mites, aphids and whiteflies can become pests, especially when the plants are drought-stressed, or are grown in enclosed glasshouses or under roofs outdoors.

Indoors plants may become infested with spider mites, aphids or mealybugs.

Warning:

Generally speaking, members of the Acanthaceae family are non-toxic. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the sap of Persian Shield may be irritating to the skin.

Description, History & Interesting Facts:

This charming evergreen shrub produces masses of unusual rosy red and white flowers in winter and spring when little else is blooming.

Grevilleas are native to Australia and belong to the Protea family, producing flowers that don't have petals; much like our indigenous Pincushions (Leucospermum).

Mount Tamboritha has a lovely low growing and spreading habit, growing 30 to 50cm tall and 1.5 to 2.5m wide, and the beautiful soft, blue-grey leaves look attractive all year round.

In the Garden:

This plant makes a wonderful groundcover; especially in large areas and between conifers.

It is spectacular if allowed to cascade down banks or over low walls and works harmoniously in rock and pebble gardens.

Its growth habit makes it ideal to plant in hanging baskets and window boxes.

Cultivation:

This evergreen grows easily throughout the country, is hardy to frost and does well in coastal gardens and dryer regions.

Plant it in full sun and in well drained soil. It prefers soils that are low in phosphate so do not add superphosphate or bone meal to the planting holes; some compost is all that is required. It can be pruned quite hard in early summer when it has finished flowering to keep it lower growing.

Dyschoriste thunbergiiflora Description, History & Interesting Facts:

There are about 65 species of Dyschoriste which occur worldwide in tropical and warm areas; seventeen species are native to southern Africa.

Dyschoriste thunbergiiflora is a much branched, upright to sprawling evergreen perennial shrub found growing wild in east Africa, particularly Kenya; occurring mainly in open bush and riverine grassland. The plant grows quickly to +-1 to 1.5m tall with an equal or slightly larger spread, 

In the Garden:

It remains a popular garden plant because it produces masses of striking violet-blue trumpet flowers, marked with dark blue spots and lines in the throat. The blooms just keep on coming almost all summer and well into autumn, attracting butterflies to your garden; and if the plant is kept well irrigated it will produce attractive lush foliage all season.

Purple bell’s is a fast growing and a colourful solution for those moist shady spots in the garden and looks wonderful if planted next to a water feature or pond. It is also an excellent low maintenance shrub for the shady mixed border and easily trained by light pruning.

It is also easily persuaded to clamour up a trellis or other support; and a striking choice for cement or clay containers.

Cultivation/Propagation:

Although this evergreen thrives in the warm frost-free regions of the country, it is semi-hardy to moderate frost if planted in a sheltered position in the garden and mulched in winter.

It adapts to sun or semi-shade and tolerates most fertile, well-drained garden soils, from acidic to slightly alkaline ranges; adapting to chalk, clay loam, loam, loamy sand, sandy clay loam and sandy loam soils.

Although this plant loves water, it is reasonably drought tolerant; tending to go dormant in drought conditions. It thrives if it is watered, mulched, and fed regularly with an organic slow release fertiliser.

Prune lightly in spring, or after blooming, to keep it more compact.

Description, History & Interesting Facts:

Limonium were formerly classified in the genus Statice and are still widely sold under that name.

Limonium has around 120 species of mainly summer-flowering annuals, perennials, and small shrubs. It is widely distributed around the world, in Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and North America; but the greatest diversity (over 100 species) is in the area stretching from the Canary Islands east through the Mediterranean region to central Asia.

The genus name comes from the Greek leimon, meaning meadow, referring to a favoured habitat of these plants; many species flourish in saline soils, and are therefore common near coasts and in salt marshes (or salt meadows), and also on saline, gypsum and alkaline soils in continental interiors.

They are probably the most well-known of the "everlastings" due to the dry, papery nature of their flowers valued by arrangers and crafters through history.

Limonium perezii is a tough evergreen perennial herb of coastal habitat and is native to the Canary Islands, off the west coast of Africa. It is a giant statice which will grow +-50 to 60cm tall and +-40cm wide. Its thick, oval to round leaves are about 30cm long; and like most Limonium species it forms attractive low-growing mounds.

Large flower heads of tiny papery, violet-blue and white flowers are produced nearly all year round in favourable climates, but are especially prolific in summer. The individual flowers are minute but make a stunning display because they are borne in billowing sprays, held well clear of the foliage; on wiry branching stems. Fresh flowers last long in the vase, and dried flowers keep their colour beautifully.

In the Garden:

Sea lavender grows well in seaside conditions as well as inland, and is an outstanding low maintenance perennial for water-wise gardens. It is a great accent plant among big-leaved tropical plants and is conveniently small enough for beach cottages and bungalows; in courtyards, patios and sheltered front-entry gardens.

Plant it along palisades, on dunes and embankments, in dry streambeds, or amongst landscape boulders and rocky outcroppings. It is most effective in massed beds, and if planted +-40cm apart, makes a lovely edging plant or groundcover. It also mixes well with other annuals or perennials in containers.

Cultivation/Propagation:

Sea lavender thrives in warm coastal and frost free regions of the country, but also grows well in colder inland gardens, being hardy to moderate frost and temperatures as low as -3 C; in these regions it will do best in a sheltered part of the garden.

It performs best in full sun, but will still bloom in a dry lightly shaded location. It is adapted to light well-drained soils, but will tolerate most garden soils which drain well.

Follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season in order to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established the plant is drought tolerant, but will look at its best if watered moderately during long dry summer spells.

Apply a balanced organic fertiliser in early spring and remove spent blooms after flowering to keep the plants looking tidy and to encourage further blooms. Divide overcrowded clumps every 2 to 3 years in early spring.

This plant is relatively pest and disease free if grown correctly but it can be plagued by snails and slugs; cutting out all of the old leaves and cleaning away the debris at least once a year, will help to deter them and keep the plants fresh and neat.

Propagation is from seed, root cuttings or division of overcrowded clumps. Seed is sown in spring, germinating best in soil temperatures of 16 to 21°C.

Warning:

In coastal southern California, it is a non-native landscaping escapee which can occasionally be seen growing around beaches and roadsides.