Family: Acanthaceae

This is quite a large genus of perennial herbs from tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, southern Africa and Mada­gascar, but only two species are commonly cul­tivated. They are grown for their attractive foliage, in frost-prone climates in a warm green-house or conservatory, as house plants, or as annual, summer bedding plants.

Species

H. aristata, from South Africa, is a shrub-like plant, to 1 m (3 ft), with terminal spikes of small, pink to purple, tubular flowers from summer to winter.

H. phyllostachya, freckle-face, pink polka dot plant, measles plant or flamingo plant, from Madagascar, grows to about 1 m (3 ft), with attractive, pinkspotted, egg-shaped leaves. The small, mauve flowers are quite insignificant. This species is good to plant for summer bedding.

Cultivation

Under glass or indoors, grow in pots of soil-based potting compost. Ensure good light but shade from direct sun. A humid atmo­sphere is recommended. Propagate in spring from seed germinated at 18°C (64°F) or from softwood or semi-ripe cuttings.

Climate

Subtropical to tropical. Zone 10 plus.