Justicia insolita
Care, watering, light and tips for Justicia insolita on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Justicia insolita
Justicia insolita, commonly known as chuparrosa, is a perennial shrub from the Acanthaceae family, prized for its distinctive bright red tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds. Its dark green foliage beautifully contrasts with the blossoms, creating a vibrant focal point in tropical and subtropical gardens, as well as in large pots on patios.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, especially in warm climates. Use a well-draining, organic-rich substrate. A common mistake is neglecting pruning, which can lead to a leggy plant with fewer blooms; prune after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth.
How to save a dying Justicia insolita
- Warning signs
- Wilting or yellowing leaves, flower and leaf drop, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Move to partial shade, water if soil is dry, check drainage. Prune dry branches.
- What kills it
- Excessive direct sun and prolonged dryness. Also constant waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's resilient. Act quickly by correcting watering and location.