Marmalade Bush (Streptosolen jamesonii)

Marmalade Bush

Streptosolen jamesonii

Its tubular blooms glow like sun-warmed marmalade, a riot of golden-orange color. Evergreen flowering shrub; common name: Marmalade Bush.

Full sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in bright direct sunlight; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot, arid regions 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 Prefers temperatures between 15–25°C; protect from frost below 5°C to avoid leaf and stem damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval to lanceolate, glossy dark green, arranged alternately on woody stems
  • Flower: Tubular trumpet-shaped blooms that transition from pale yellow to deep orange-red as they mature
  • Stem: Woody, branching stems with a slightly sprawling growth habit
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to support active blooming

Fertilization

Feed with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter to support dormancy

Banana peel tea:Chop 1 ripe banana peel, soak in 1 liter of water for 3 days, strain, and use to water the plant base to enhance flower production
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
  • Prune back leggy stems by one-third in early spring to maintain a compact, bushy shape
  • Remove damaged, diseased, or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce pest 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 or bright indoor spaces