Family: Goodeniaceae

These exceptionally beautiful, small shrubs are all native to Western Australia. Tubular flowers with spreading lobes bloom over a long period, generally in late spring and summer. The shim­mering blue of L. biloba is unforgettable; others have striking, red flowers. Where frosts occur, grow these prostrate or low-growing plants in a cool or intermediate conservatory or greenhouse. Outdoors in suitable climates, use them as groundcover.

Species

L. acutiloba grows to 25 cm (10 in) high, with cream flowers flushed with blue.

L. biloba, blue Ieschenaultia, is a spreading plant, growing to about 50 cm (20 in) high, and renowned for its lovely, bright blue flowers. Cultivar 'Blue Flash' has white and blue flowers.

L. formosa, red leschenaultia, may be prostrate or nearly prostrate and is possibly the easiest species to grow. It produces an abundance of scarlet flowers.

L. macrantha, wreath leschenaultia, is an unusual, yet beautiful plant, yellow and red flowers enclosing a central mass of grayish blue leaves to form a wreath in late spring and summer.

L. tubiflora is a choice species with small, upright flowers in cream, pink or red, or sometimes a combination of these colours.

Cultivation

In a greenhouse or conservatory, grow in pots of gritty, soil-based potting com­post with added coir fiber. Plants need maximum light, airy conditions, good light and shade from direct strong sun. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape. Outdoors grow in very well-drained soil in full sun. Propagate from softwood cuttings in spring, rooting them in a heated propagating case.

Climate

Zone 10.