Overview

Diascia rigescens is a perennial in the genus Diascia, part of the Scrophulariaceae family. Diascia rigescens grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders and containers. It is native to South Africa.

About

Diascia rigescens is a perennial in the Scrophulariaceae native to South Africa, commonly called stiff twinspur. In the UK it flowers from June to September. It prefers full sun or partial shade on well-drained soil with moderate moisture and carries an H4 hardiness rating (average hardy). Place it at the front of borders or in containers to make the most of its summer flowering run.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Diascia rigescens

About the genus

Diascia is a genus of around 70 species of herbaceous annual and perennial flowering plants of the family Scrophulariaceae, native to southern Africa, including South Africa, Lesotho and neighbouring areas.

Wikipedia contributors, "Diascia (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Diascia (plant)

In the garden

Diascia rigescens, known as stiff twinspur, is a perennial member of the Scrophulariaceae from South Africa. In the UK it comes into flower from June to September, providing an extended summer display suited to temperate borders and patio containers. Plant in a position with full sun or some afternoon shade on well-drained soil; avoid heavy, waterlogged ground. Keep soil moisture moderate rather than constantly wet and use a free-draining compost for container-grown specimens. The official UK rating H4 translates as average hardy, so it will withstand typical UK winters in many areas but benefits from a sheltered spot in colder exposures. Use stiff twinspur at the front of mixed borders where its summer flowering can be seen at close range, or in containers and troughs where drainage is controlled. A late-spring planting into prepared border soil or a fresh container mix will help establish flowering stems for the June start. Because its display runs through September, plan surrounding plants so the overall bed or pot maintains structure once flowering begins to fade.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Diascia

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil moisture

moderate

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Diascia rigescens size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Suggested uses

borders, containers

Native to

South Africa

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Diascia rigescens

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained soil and a sunny or partially shaded position. Avoid waterlogging.

Pruning

Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.

Propagation

Seed, cuttings

Frequently asked questions