About
Richardia elliottiana is a species in the Rubiaceae, placed in the genus Richardia — a group commonly called Mexican-clover. The genus is mainly composed of annual plants native to tropical and warm-temperate parts of the Americas. In the UK it provides a summer display, with flowering from July to September. Cultivation tends to follow the seasonal pattern of other warm-origin annuals.
About the genus
Richardia (Mexican-clover) is a genus of about fifteen species of flowering plants in the family Rubiaceae. They are native to tropical to warm, temperate regions of the Americas, with one species also native to Fiji.
In the garden
Richardia elliottiana belongs to the Rubiaceae and sits within the Richardia group often referred to as Mexican-clover. Members of this genus originate from tropical to warm-temperate regions of the Americas and are predominantly annual in habit, so they are generally grown for their seasonal impact rather than as long-term perennials in cooler climates. Given the genus background, Richardia elliottiana is valued for summer flowering and is used where a seasonal burst of bloom is wanted; its recorded flowering period in the UK runs from July to September. Gardeners treating plants from warmer regions should plan for summer interest and position them where they can complete their life cycle during the warmer months. Where space allows, use Richardia elliottiana in summer bedding schemes, containers or mixed seasonal borders that are renewed each year. As with other species originating from warmer climates, consider it a component of summer displays rather than a permanent structural plant. Expect a defined flowering window from July to September when scheduling planting and replacing seasonal stock.