About

A tropical evergreen shrub, up to around 3m high, with soft, lobed, grey-green leaves. Small clusters of bowl-shaped, bright red flowers are produced in summer; in a warm sheltered spot flowers may be produced almost all year round.

About the genus

Phymosia is a genus containing species of varied habit, from compact perennials to larger woody plants. Members are valued in horticulture for their flowers, foliage, or overall form and are found in diverse habitats worldwide

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Native toMexico

Care notes

CultivationThrives in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade; in areas prone to hard frosts, grow under glass or in containers that can be moved indoors over winter. Will not tolerate strong winds or waterlogged soil
PruningMinimal pruning required; if grown under glass, restrictive pruning can be done in late winter
PropagationPropagate by seed or by softwood cuttings in late spring or late summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free