Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Red | ||
| Autumn | Red | |||
| Winter | Red |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1CBotanical details
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Iresine can be annuals or evergreen perennials with simple, ovate leaves, usually brightly coloured or patterned, with insignificant terminal spikes of whitish flowers in summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Ecuador
How to grow
Cultivation
Under glass grow in a loam-based potting compost in full light with shade from hot sun. When in growth water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Keep just moist in winter. Can be grown outdoors during the summer in a moderately fertile soil but provide protection from cold, drying winds
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings in late winter or early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Glasshouse whitefly and glasshouse red spider mite may be a problem
Diseases
Powdery mildews may be a problem under glass
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.