Overview
Justicia californica is a bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Justicia, part of the Acanthaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Justicia californica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.
About
Justicia californica, commonly known as chuparosa honeysuckle, is a bushy evergreen shrub from the Acanthaceae family. As a member of the Justicia genus, it features simple foliage and tubular flowers with two lips, often arranged in spikes or clusters. This cultivar thrives in full sun or partial shade, preferring fertile, well-drained loam soil with an acid to neutral pH. Suitable for conservatories, greenhouses, and as a houseplant, it is best grown in sheltered, east-, south-, or west-facing aspects. It is hardy to H1a and is ideal for patio and container planting, with interest in spring and summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Justicia
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Justicia californica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Justicia californica
- Propagation
- Seed, softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Glasshouse red spider mite, Glasshouse whitefly
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Justicia californica?
Justicia californica prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Justicia californica need?
Justicia californica grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
Is Justicia californica hardy in the UK?
Justicia californica has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Justicia californica?
Seed, softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings.
More in the Justicia genus
- Justicia aconitiflora
- Justicia adhatodaadhatoda
- Justicia aurea
- Justicia hyssopifolia
- Justicia lutea
- Justicia plumbaginifolia
- Justicia procumbens
- Justicia ventricosa
