Family: Acanthaceae

This genus of 60 species of tropical shrubs and perennials is not well known outside the tropics, though some species are popular green-house and conservatory plants. While the flowers are attractive, these shrubs are grown mainly for their showy, colourful foliage. Some have origins in the tropical Americas, but many are native to the Pacific Islands.

Species

P. atropurpureum, from Polynesia, grows 1-1.5 m (3-5 ft) high. Foliage is brilliant green or deep purple, splashed or spotted with white, pink, purple, yellow or green. Tubular, white flowers spotted pink to purple, appear in summer.

P. reticulatum, golden net bush, has deep green leaves, veined with pale yellow. It grows to around 1 m (3 ft) high and bears white flowers with deep pink to red throats, in late spring through summer.

Cultivation

Grow in a warm conservatory or greenhouse, in pots of soil-based potting coin-post. Give good light but shade from direct sun), and a humid atmosphere. Pruning may be needed in spring to restrict size. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, with basal warmth.

Climate

Tropical.