This evergreen, spreading tree from tropical seashores of the Indian
and Pacific Oceans grows to a height of about 30 ft (9 m) with a
spread almost as great. It has large, heart-shaped, soft green
leaves with white undersides and bears scattered clear yellow
flowers with large crimson centers that turn orange as they fade.
There are cultivars with purple or variegated leaves.
It flowers for most of the year.
Cultivation: Easy to grow, the shrubby species thrive in sun and
slightly acid, well-drained soil.
Trim after flowering to maintain shape.
Propagation is from seed or cuttings or by division, depending on
the species.
Watch for aphids, mealybugs and whitefly. |