Flamingo flower (Justicia secunda)
Care, watering, light and tips for Flamingo flower on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 4 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Flamingo flower
Justicia secunda, commonly known as Red Justicia, is an ornamental shrub featuring attractive foliage and vibrant, tubular red flowers that bloom in terminal spikes. It is ideal for adding a vivid splash of color to tropical and subtropical gardens, as well as in large pots on patios and terraces. Its dense habit and striking flowers make it an excellent focal point or a component of informal hedges.
Native range
Tropical America, including the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America.
Care tips
This plant thrives in bright light to full sun for optimal flowering, though it tolerates partial shade. It requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during warm and dry periods. Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is neglecting pruning, which can lead to a leggy plant with reduced flowering; prune after blooming to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth.
How to save a dying Flamingo flower
- Warning signs
- Drooping, wilting, yellowing leaves, or dry, crispy edges. Lack of flowering.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, repot. Prune damaged stems.
- What kills it
- Prolonged drought (it's thirsty) or constant waterlogging. Lack of light or intense cold.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's resilient. Act quickly when symptoms appear, especially with watering and light.