About
Phygelius capensis, the Cape figwort, is a vigorous, semi-evergreen shrub with triangular-ovate, mid-green leaves to 8 cm. Nodding, tubular, bright orange-red flowers 3 cm long are produced in large, open, terminal panicles throughout summer. A rewarding and dramatic plant for a sunny, sheltered border.
About the genus
Phygelius, the Cape fuchsias, are evergreen shrubs from South Africa usually grown as herbaceous perennials in cooler climates, with simple, ovate leaves and large, open panicles of pendent, tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, orange, yellow or cream throughout summer.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal
Native toTemp S Africa
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in most fertile soils but may require some winter protection in colder areas. Can be grown as a shrub or as a herbaceous perennial
PruningCut back to base in late spring or pruning group 9
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in spring or take softwood cuttings in late spring. Suckers may be detached and rooted in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to figwort weevil and capsid bug
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)