Justicia candicans, commonly known as the Brazilian Plume Flower, is a tropical evergreen shrub that is part of the Acanthaceae family. Native to Brazil, this shrub can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It features dark green, lance-shaped leaves that can reach up to 6 inches in length. The plant is particularly noted for its striking flowers, which display long-lasting pink or red plumes that bloom from summer through fall.
Justicia candicans thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is a low-maintenance plant, requiring regular watering during the growing season but able to tolerate drought once established. This shrub also attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, making it an excellent addition to any garden.
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Justicia candicans has medicinal properties and has traditionally been used to treat various ailments such as fever, coughs, colds, headaches, and stomach problems.
Overall, Justicia candicans is a beautiful and versatile ornamental shrub that is well-suited for tropical gardens or container planting on patios or balconies.
Arizona water-willow is disease-resistant and typically not susceptible to illnesses. In terms of care, the plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only light watering, and larger specimens usually do not require pruning. Smaller specimens, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Arizona water-willow is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand extensive care experience.
How to keep Justicia Candicans.
Light
Arizona water-willow naturally occurs in habitats like forest understories and rocky sites, where it gets natural shade. It favors partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, showing its adaptable and hardy character.
Temperature
The Arizona water-willow comes from tropical areas where the climate is usually warm and humid. Because of this, it is adapted to high temperatures and moisture. It is sensitive to sudden temperature changes and favors a steady temperature, so indoor temperature fluctuations should be avoided. It generally does not tolerate cold and needs warmer conditions to grow. If the ambient temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.
Fertilizer
Fertilize an Arizona water-willow in early spring as it breaks dormancy; this encourages overall growth and flower development. Feeding the plant improves foliage, stems, and branches and promotes flowers that are large, vibrant, and long-lasting. It also helps transport nutrients from the roots to the flowers and enhances the plant's health and resistance to disease.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Justicia
- Family
- Acanthaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 0.61 m to 1.22 m
- Mature Spread
- 61 cm to 91 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen, Semi-evergreen
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 3.05 cm to 5.08 cm
- Bloom Time
- All year round
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- All year round
- Native Area
- Mexico
Other names.
