Overview

Strobilanthes wallichii is a plant with a bushy habit in the genus Strobilanthes, part of the Acanthaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Strobilanthes wallichii 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 bedding, border and greenhouse.

About

Strobilanthes wallichii, commonly known as Kashmir acanthus, hardy Persian shield, wild petunia, or kandali, is a herbaceous perennial which is native to the Himalayas. In its natural habitat, it purple blooms appear only once every twelve years, an occasion which is celebrated by the Kandali Festival in the Pithoragarh District in India.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Strobilanthes wallichii

About the genus

Strobilanthes is a genus of about 350 species of flowering plants in the family Acanthaceae, mostly native to tropical Asia and Madagascar, but with a few species extending north into temperate regions of Asia. Many species are cultivated for their two-lipped, hooded flowers in shades of blue, pink, white and purple. Most are frost-tender and require protection in frost-prone areas.

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

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, Moist but well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, East-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1b

Plant details

Strobilanthes wallichii size, habit and characteristics

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Evergreen

Suggested uses

Bedding, Border, Greenhouse

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Strobilanthes wallichii

Propagation

Seed, Softwood cuttings

Pest resistance

Spider mites

Disease resistance

Root rot

Frequently asked questions