About
Fast-growing, sub-tropical, woody-stemmed perennial native to South America, about 2-3m tall, with deeply-lobed, intricately-cut, palmate rich green leaves and clusters of waxy red-striped, pale green bell-shaped flowers in summer. It is closely related to the edible tapioca.
About the genus
Manihot is a genus of plants encompassing species that may be herbaceous, shrubby, or woody. They are grown for their ornamental flowers, foliage, or fruit, and vary in hardiness and cultural requirements
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous, Semi evergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Care notes
CultivationIn mild or frost-free counies, grow in any free-draining soil in full sun with shelter. In frost-prone areas, grow in a cool greenhouse, in a mix of peat-free potting compost and grit, in full light and with low humidity. Water moderately during the growing season, sparingly in winter
PruningNo pruning required. Cut down any dead or damaged foliage in early spring
PropagationPropagate by seed or softwood cuttings (stem cuttings)
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, glasshouse red spider mite or glasshouse whitefly if grown under glass
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free