Synonyms: Laurentia
Family: Campanulaceae

Of this small genus of tender annuals and perennials from Australia and tropical America, only one or two are in cultivation. Isotoma axillaris (Synonym: Laurentia axillaris) is becoming very popular for outdoor, summer display either for use in hanging baskets and or in patio tubs.

Species

Isotoma axillaris (Synonym: Laurentia axillaris), is a small, bushy perennial with a woody base, which produces masses of starry, blue flowers against a background of light green, narrow-lobed leaves from the spring to the autumn. It is invariably grown as an annual and is now popular as a summer display plant. There are now several cultivars with flowers in various colours-pink and shades of blue, or white.

Cultivation

Grow either as summer bedding plants or as pot plants in an intermediate conservatory. Raise from seed in spring and germinate at 18°C (64°F). Pot seedlings into soil-based potting compost. Alternatively, take softwood cuttings in summer. Plant out after frosts in a sunny position.

Climate

These tender annuals and perennials require zone 10.