About
A half-hardy annual with green, serrated leaves and pompon-shaped bright orange flowers during the summer.
About the genus
Emilia includes herbaceous and sometimes woody species grown for their ornamental merit. The genus is represented in gardens by selected species and cultivars suited to a range of growing conditions
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationSow indoors Feb-April in seed compost, keeping the temperature at around 15-20oC (60-68oF). When large enough transplant to further trays or pots of compost. Gradually harden off before planting out to final position in late May spacing 25cm (10in) apart. Or, sow outdoors April to May in flowering position, thinly, cover with 1.5cm (½in) of fine soil, keep well watered and thin as necessary. Flowers: July to September. Remove dead heads to prolong flowering.
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering
PropagationSow indoors late winter to early spring or in situ after the risk of frosts has passed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free