Yellow Jacobinia (Justicia aurea)

Yellow Jacobinia

Justicia aurea

Golden blooms glow like sunny torches, brightening shaded garden corners. Evergreen flowering shrub; common name: Yellow Jacobinia.

Partial sun
2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade, avoid harsh midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries out; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm, humid conditions; protect from temperatures below 12°C to avoid leaf drop
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, ovate to lanceolate glossy dark green leaves, 10–15 cm long
  • Flower: Dense terminal spikes of tubular golden-yellow flowers with overlapping bright yellow bracts
  • Stem: Woody branching stems with smooth green to brownish bark
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Pause fertilization during autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel compost tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support flower production
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season
  • Trim leggy stems in early spring to maintain a compact, bushy shape
  • Remove damaged or yellowing foliage to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub, container plant for patios, indoor flowering houseplant