PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; produces the most blooms with 6+ hours of direct daily sunlight; tolerates filtered shade in hot climates
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal growth
Temperature
Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; thrives in warm temperate to subtropical temperature ranges
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, lanceolate to ovate leaves; glossy dark green, 2–5 cm long
- Flower: Clusters of tubular scarlet-red blooms; 2–3 cm long, lightly fragrant
- Stem: Slender green stems; woody at the base with mature growth
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in late autumn to support dormancy
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Deadhead spent flower clusters regularly to encourage continuous blooming
- Prune back stems by 1/3 in late winter to maintain a compact, rounded shape
- Remove damaged, diseased, or overcrowded stems to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; cut flower for floral arrangements; attracts hummingbirds and pollinating butterflies
