Strobilanthes anisophylla is a charming evergreen sub-shrub, notable for its striking dark foliage and delicate lavender-pink blooms. It brings handsome contrast and seasonal interest, especially when placed in sheltered, humus-rich conditions or grown in containers where it can be protected from frost. A standout choice for conservatories, patios, or woodland-themed plantings.
Scientific Name: Strobilanthes anisophylla (synonym: Goldfussia anisophylla).
Family: Acanthaceae
Native Range: Asia, particularly India; introduced in tropical regions including Madagascar.
Form: Evergreen, erect, bushy sub-shrub, typically reaching 0.5 to 1 m (50–100 cm) in both height and spread.
Leaves: Lance-shaped, opposite leaves with toothed margins. Notably anisophyllous—pairs often differ in size—with colours ranging from dark purplish to brown-purple or almost black, sometimes with a silvery sheen.
Flowers: In spring and summer, it produces tubular-to-bell-shaped flowers in pale lavender-pink or mauve tones, forming cone-shaped clusters.
Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade, with partial shade preferred in warmer climates to protect foliage from scorchin.
Soil & Moisture: Prefers humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral.
Hardiness: Tender—hardy to approximately –4 to –5 °C. In cooler climates (like much of the UK), best grown in pots and overwintered in a cool greenhouse or similar protected environment.
Propagation: Easily propagated from softwood cuttings in spring or autumn; rapid root strike has been noted with good success rates.
Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering to maintain bushy form. In colder regions, overwintering under protection is advisable.
Pests & Diseases: Generally trouble-free; no major issues reported.
Decorative Appeal: Its deep-toned foliage paired with pale blooms make it an excellent contrast plant. Works well in containers, borders, conservatories, or woodland-edge settings.
Ideal for: Patio pots (especially for temperate climates), sheltered garden beds, and mixed borders where winter-to-summer interest is desired.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 0.5–1 m tall and wide |
| Foliage | Narrow, toothed, opposite leaves; dark purplish/brown-purple, often anisophyllous |
| Flowers | Pale lavender-pink tubular/bell-shaped, in cone-shaped clusters (spring–summer) |
| Light Needs | Full sun to partial shade (partial preferred in warm areas) |
| Soil | Humus-rich, moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral |
| Hardiness | Tender; hardy to ≈ –4 °C; best in pots in colder climates |
| Propagation | Softwood cuttings (spring/autumn)—high success |
| Uses | Containers, borders, conservatories—striking contrast plant |
Strobilanthes anisophylla is a charming evergreen sub-shrub, notable for its striking dark foliage and delicate lavender-pink blooms. It brings handsome contrast and seasonal interest, especially when placed in sheltered, humus-rich conditions or grown in containers where it can be protected from frost. A standout choice for conservatories, patios, or woodland-themed plantings.
| Size | 1 Litre, 2 Litre, 3 Litre, 5 Litre |
|---|
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