Japanese name: ポルフィロコマ ランケオラータ Scientific name:Porphyrocoma lanceolata
[Overview]
An evergreen perennial about 25–45 cm tall.
The leaves are simple, opposite or decussate, lanceolate to oblong, with silvery white markings along the veins and a velvety texture.
It flowers all year round if the temperature is high enough.
A spike is produced at the tip of the stem, bearing overlapping ovate red bracts, and reddish purple two-lipped flowers project from between the bracts.
[Cultivation]
Propagate by cuttings.
It can overwinter if the temperature stays at 6–8°C or higher.
It prefers partial shade to shade and fertile, well-drained soil.
Direct sunlight in summer can cause leaf scorch.
For potted plants, from spring to autumn water thoroughly when the soil surface dries, and keep on the dry side in winter.
For plants in the ground, watering is not necessary unless sunny weather continues and the soil dries out.
Less fertilizer keeps the plant compact, so apply liquid fertilizer about once every 2 weeks from spring to autumn.
Pests and diseases include scale insects and spider mites.
