About
An erect annual with hairy elliptic leaves to 20cm in length, and white-throated, tubular funnel-shaped, light violet-blue flowers 3cm across in summer and autumn.
About the genus
Microchirita are a genus of annual plants native to India and the Himalayas. Most cultivars have yellow flowers and foliage that is either plain green or marked with red. Many species have an unusual crest-like flower head emerging from the leaf, with flowers opening in sequence.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Native toAsia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, humus-rich, gritty soil in partial shade.
PruningPruning group 10; deadhead after flowering. Trimming in late summer prevents plants from becoming straggly, but you can leave plants for a season to benefit wildlife with seeds or as shelter if you prefer. Avoid pruning in autumn in wet or cold regions as this may leave plants vulnerable to winter damage. Avoid cutting back into old wood
PropagationPropagate by seed sown under glass at a temperature of 19-24°C in late winter to spring. Plant out when danger of frost is over
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to rosemary beetle and cuckoo spit (froghoppers)
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to stem rot in damp conditions