Overview
Strobilanthes formosana is a bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Strobilanthes, part of the Acanthaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Strobilanthes formosana grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1B. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants and sub-tropical.
About
Strobilanthes formosana is a bushy, evergreen shrub cultivar within the Strobilanthes genus, known for its simple, opposite foliage and tubular or funnel-shaped flowers. It thrives in full sun or partial shade, ideally in sheltered, south- or west-facing positions. This cultivar prefers fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soils across a range of pH levels. Suitable for conservatories, patios, and sub-tropical gardens, it is hardy under UK conditions classified as H1B and is best propagated by softwood cuttings. Interest in this plant is primarily during the spring and summer seasons.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Strobilanthes
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1B
Plant details
Strobilanthes formosana size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Strobilanthes formosana
- Propagation
- Propagate by softwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Strobilanthes formosana?
Strobilanthes formosana prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Strobilanthes formosana need?
Strobilanthes formosana grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Strobilanthes formosana hardy in the UK?
Strobilanthes formosana has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Strobilanthes formosana?
Propagate by softwood cuttings.
More in the Strobilanthes genus
- Strobilanthes anisophylla 'Assam'
- Strobilanthes attenuata 'Out of the Ocean'
- Strobilanthes gossypinapewter plant
- Strobilanthes wallichii
- Strobilanthes 'Silver Star'