Overview
Strobilanthes gossypina is a spreading branched, bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Strobilanthes, part of the Acanthaceae family, with deciduous, evergreen foliage. Strobilanthes gossypina grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3, H4. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants and flower borders and beds.
About
Strobilanthes gossypina, commonly known as pewter plant, is a cultivar of the Strobilanthes genus, which includes evergreen or herbaceous perennials and subshrubs with simple, opposite foliage. This spreading, bushy shrub can be grown in conservatories or greenhouses and thrives in full sun or partial shade with well-drained, fertile loam soil. It is suitable for sheltered east, south, or west-facing aspects and is hardy in UK zones H3 and H4. The plant is deciduous to evergreen and is of interest in spring and summer, making it ideal for cottage gardens, patios, containers, and flower borders.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Strobilanthes
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3, H4
Plant details
Strobilanthes gossypina size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Shrubs
- Habit
- Spreading branched, Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous, Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Strobilanthes gossypina
- Propagation
- Seed, Softwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Red spider mite
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Strobilanthes gossypina?
Strobilanthes gossypina prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Strobilanthes gossypina need?
Strobilanthes gossypina grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Strobilanthes gossypina hardy in the UK?
Strobilanthes gossypina has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Strobilanthes gossypina?
Seed, Softwood cuttings.
More in the Strobilanthes genus
- Strobilanthes anisophylla 'Assam'
- Strobilanthes attenuata 'Out of the Ocean'
- Strobilanthes formosana
- Strobilanthes wallichii
- Strobilanthes 'Silver Star'