Overview

Phygelius capensis is a perennial shrub in the genus Phygelius, part of the Scrophulariaceae family. Phygelius capensis grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, containers and wildlife gardens. It is native to Temp S Africa.

About

Phygelius capensis is a perennial shrub notable for its summer display of upright tubular blooms. It flowers in the UK from July to September. It prefers full sun or partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil kept evenly moist.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phygelius capensis

About the genus

Phygelius, common names Cape fuchsia or Cape figwort, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Scrophulariaceae, native to wet slopes and banks in southern Africa. They are evergreen shrubs often treated as perennials in colder climates. They bear many pendent tubular flowers over a long period in summer, in shades of white, yellow and red.

Wikipedia contributors, "Phygelius", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phygelius

In the garden

Phygelius capensis originates from temperate South Africa and sits in the Scrophulariaceae family; in the UK it provides a summer succession of tubular flowers from July to September. Its architectural flowering panicles give strong seasonal presence without requiring specialist pruning methods. Plant in a sunny or part-shaded spot where soil is fertile and drains freely but retains some moisture; neutral to slightly acidic conditions suit it best. The species tolerates sites from sheltered to exposed and carries an H5 rating, meaning it is hardy in most UK gardens. In containers use a free-draining, fertile compost and ensure regular watering through the growing season so flower production is not reduced. Use Cape figwort towards the rear of mixed borders, in large patio containers, or within wildlife-friendly beds where a summer display is required. Give plants room to spread across a bed rather than crowding them, and note the guaranteed flowering window in the UK: July to September.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Phygelius

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained, fertile

Soil pH

neutral, slightly acidic

Soil moisture

moist, well-drained

Exposure

sheltered to exposed

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Phygelius capensis size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial shrub

Suggested uses

borders, containers, wildlife gardens

Native to

Temp S Africa

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Phygelius capensis

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade; water regularly during dry periods.

Pruning

Cut back hard in late winter or early spring to encourage bushy growth and flowering.

Propagation

semi-ripe cuttings in summer, seed

Frequently asked questions