Brazilian Plume (Justicia carnea): Fluffy Pink Spikes for Shade

Brazilian plume (Justicia carnea), also called flamingo flower, jacobinia, or pine-bur begonia, is a soft-wooded, evergreen shrub with large, deep green, quilted leaves and showy, dense, fluffy spikes of tubular pink flowers (white forms exist) from summer to fall.

Growth

Reaches 4–6 feet tall and wide. The flowers are held above the foliage on sturdy stems. Hummingbirds are frequent visitors. It blooms in shade, a valuable trait.

Culture

Partial to full shade; rich, moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly. Pinch to encourage branching. Prune after flowering. Hardy in zones 9–11; in zone 9, may die back but return. Excellent container plant.

Taxonomy

• Family: Acanthaceae
• Genus: Justicia
• Species: carnea
• Synonym: Jacobinia carnea