JUSTICIA. North America and tropics worldwide. This is where botanists have recently banished many of the plants we once knew as Beloperone, plus other odd members of the acanthus family. They are ornamental shrubs encountered from our Southwestern deserts to the South American and other tropics. They have pairs of opposite, usually roughly oval leaves and clusters of irregular, tubular flowers, often with conspicuous bracts. Both culture and hardiness vary considerably.

carnea (Jacobinia carnea). Brazilian plume flower. An interesting shrub for mild climates, with erect stems of 4’ or more and large, shiny, deeply veined leaves. In summer and fall each shoot is tipped by a dense spike of tubular pink flowers. The selection we have traditionally offered is decidedly more compact than the typical form. Recently we were pleased to add the selection  ‘Alba’, taller growing and featuring pure white flowers. Part shade, rich, reasonably well drained soil, regular watering. Hardy to 20-25^o, resprouting after serious damage to the tops.

leonardii. An odd, twiggy shrub growing about 3’ tall, with grey green stems and velvet-textured, darker green leaves. It blooms from late spring to fall, carrying small clusters of 1½" blossoms, bright red-orange in this selection, at the shoot tips. Sun, reasonably well drained soil, moderate to occasional watering. Hardy to 20^oF or less.