About
Dimorphanthera amplifolia var. gigantea is the giant-leaved variety of D. amplifolia, producing the characteristic large, tubular, brilliantly coloured flowers of the genus on notably outsized foliage. A spectacular climber for a cool to intermediate heated greenhouse.
About the genus
Dimorphanthera are climbing or scrambling shrubs in the heather family (Ericaceae), native to the mountains of New Guinea. They produce large, tubular to urn-shaped flowers in orange, red and yellow. Grown as specialist ornamental climbers in cool to intermediate glasshouse conditions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Wildflower meadow, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toW Europe
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in almost any soil,but avoid very wet or very dry situations. Prefers a humus-rich soil in partial shade but will grow in full sun. See foxglove cultivation for further advice
PruningCut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in-situ in late spring. Alternatively sow in seed trays in late spring and plant out to final position in late summer; deadhead flowers regularly if seed is not required
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and leaf and bud eelworm
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, downy mildews and leaf spot