Brazilian plume Flower or Justicia carnea is a tropical/tender perennial shrub with unusual pods holding many tubular flared flowers that bloom throughout the summer in colors ranging from pinks to purples and oranges.
Justicia branches are as delicate as the plant's other features and will not withstand traffic or wind; coupled with its preference for partial or light shade, the plume flower should ideally reside in a sheltered corner of the garden. As with so many other shade plants, about half a day of sun will produce the best display of blooms.
The genus Justicia, consists of about 300 species of herbs, shrubs and tender perennials native to the tropics and subtropics of Brazil and South America.
Justicia in various colors
Some common names for Justicia carnea include flamingo flower, Jacobinia, pine-bur begonia, pink jacobinia, pink tongues, paradise plant, king's crown and cardinal's guard. The Brazilian Plume Flower is a member of the Acanthus family, relating it to other unique tropical plants like shrimp plants.
Supposedly easy to grow and propagate, plume flowers are an ideal plant for brightening shady garden spaces if you can create the right microclimate and do exceptionally well in containers here, as they require excellent drainage.
Deadhead old flower spikes immediately when the blooms decline, and the plant will start sending out new leaves followed by more blooms. Justicia prefers mildly acidic to neutral soil and should be watered regularly but not overwatered; fertilize three times a year in spring, summer and early fall, and cut back lanky stems after blooming to maintain the plant's shape.
To encourage vigorous blooming, fertilize container plants biweekly and landscape plants monthly with timed release granules. The plant may appear leggy by late winter, but cutting back severely in late winter or early spring should encourage a dense, compact shape.
Propagation
Justicia cuttings are very easy to root. Just cut 8-12 in pieces of stem, remove all but the top 2 leaves and dust the root end of the stem with rooting hormone powder. Cover the stem 1-2 inches deep in potting soil and keep moist.
Usage
Use them in pots and containers indoors or in shady entryways, porches and patios. The smaller varieties can be used as a colorful groundcover in shady areas. Larger varieties make great background plants and can be used in mixed hedges. Because they produce lots of flowers throughout the heat of summer, justicia is becoming popular in northern gardens where it is grown as an annual or lifted into pots and wintered indoors.
Features
Justicia can't be beat for adding bright patches of vibrant color to shady areas. They are readily available from nurseries and discount stores in warm areas of the country (and becoming more available in cooler zones due to distribution by the big garden and home center chain stores).
Source: many sources
