Escallonia (Escallonia rubra)
Care, watering, light and tips for Escallonia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Escalloniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 4 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Escallonia
Escallonia rubra, also known as Redclaws, is an evergreen shrub native to South America. It is characterized by its glossy dark green leaves, often with reddish tinges on the edges, and its clusters of tubular pink to deep red flowers that appear in summer. It is ideal for hedges, borders, or as a standalone specimen in coastal or urban gardens.
Native range
Chile and Argentina
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained, fertile, slightly acidic soil. It tolerates drought once established but appreciates regular watering during dry spells. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense growth. A common mistake is planting it in heavy, waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Escallonia
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown falling leaves, dry and brittle stems, lack of flowering.
- First aid
- Check soil drainage and moisture; prune dry or damaged branches and ensure indirect sunlight. Consider fungicide for spots or mold.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging (root rot) or extreme prolonged drought, completely drying out the shrub.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted or the main trunk is not dry. Act quickly.