The Encyclopedia of House Plants

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Jacobinia

Family: Acantaceae.

Jacobinia Syn. Beloperone, Drejerella, Duvernoia, Libonia, Justicia Genus of about 420 species of evergreen perennials, shrubs and subshrubs from tropical and subtropical regions worldwide and from temperate North America. The opposite, usually simple leaves are ovate to elliptic and often boldly veined. Upright, shrubby plants with feather-like, long-lasting flowers in yellow, orange (J. pauciflora), white or pink (J. obtusior). Use as a potted plant (flowers year-'round with proper care) or as an annual in the landscape. Jacobinia can reach 4 ft or more, but old plants are unattractive. Cut plants back after flowering - during winter keep the pot in a well-lit, fairly warm spot. Pinch twice. Growth regulator recommended two weeks after each pinch to maintain compactness.
Growing conditions Watering and misting Propagation
Average warmth in summer - minimum 55F in winter.Brightly lit spot. Keep well away from direct sunlight. Keep compost moist at all times but never waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter. Do not allow to dry out. Misting is necessary. Root softwood or semi-ripe cuttings from spring to midsummer. Sow seed at 61 F (16 C) in spring.

User-submitted additions and corrections:

Sarah
Los Angeles, CA
23rd May 2009 		I've had Jacobinia in my garden for ten years. Started with three, one didn't make it, but the other two have done beautifully. It's flowering now (May) and I plan to prune it severely when it's finished blooming - and add some supports.
patricia greaves
norfolk, england
14th Jun 2010 		I have had my jacobinia for five years, propergation easy by cuttings rooted in water before planting outside, and have overwintered in unheated greenhouse, maybe in colder areas heating in winter would be necessary.
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