cardinal's guard
Pachystachys coccinea
USDA zones10 to 11
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Size12 to 24 inches tall1 to 3 feet wide
- Bloom color
- Scarlet red
Garden uses
Notes
Cardinal's guard (Pachystachys coccinea) is a shrub for annual beds. It grows outdoors year-round in USDA zone 10 and warmer, down to about 30°F (-1°C). In colder areas, grow it as a houseplant or bring it indoors for winter. This plant likes full sun and average moisture. It stays evergreen and reaches 12 to 24 inches tall. The scarlet red blooms stand out against the leaves.
Pairs well with Lantana, Mandevilla, Lemon grass, and Blue daisy.
Native range
Northern Brazil, French Guiana, Peru, and Trinidad-Tobago.