How to Care for Jacobinia Flowers

Overview

Jacobinia (Justicia carnea ), also known as the flamingo plant and the Brazilian plume, is a herbaceous flowering shrub, native to South America. Jacobinia grows 3 to 4 feet in height and blooms in spikes of tubular flowers in a variety of colors, depending upon variety. Jacobinia is a versatile plant and is grown in containers, as foundation plantings and even trained into an espalier. Jacobinia is hardy to USDA Zones 8b to 11.

Step 1

Grow your jacobinia flowers in the shade.

Step 2

Water the jacobinia often enough to keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy.

Step 3

Fertilize jacobinia in spring, summer and early fall with a balanced fertilizer, such as 6-6-6, at the rate suggested on the package. Always water after fertilizing.

Step 4

Remove dead flowers throughout the growing season. Pinch off the tips of new growth if you want to encourage the jacobinia to produce new branches.

Step 5

Check the jacobinia periodically for spider mite infestations. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap sprays, applied at the rate suggested on the label.