About
Pachystachys coccinea, cardinal's guard, is a tender, evergreen shrub producing ovate, dark-green leaves and erect, terminal spikes of striking, scarlet, tubular flowers emerging from large, bright-red bracts. A colourful and ornamental shrub for a warm, sheltered conservatory or heated greenhouse.
About the genus
Pachystachys are perennials or shrubs with simple, evergreen leaves and two-lipped, tubular flowers in erect, terminal spikes with large, often colourful bracts. Grown in warm, sheltered conservatories and heated glasshouses.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, hedging, specimen planting.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in sun or part shade.
PruningPrune after flowering or late winter.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.