Cardinal's guard

Garden Closed

The United States Botanic Garden (USBG) is temporarily closed to the public to reduce the risk of transmitting COVID-19 coronavirus.

Whenever possible, the USBG will reschedule public programs and events originally scheduled during the closure period. Please monitor the USBG website for updates to operating status. Many resources can still be accessed online, including educational worksheets and manuals, fact sheets and more, and some of our programs will also be made available online. Find online resources at www.USBG.gov/AtHome

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Plant Botanical Name:

Pachystachus coccinea

USBG Plant Location:

Conservatory

Conservatory Room Location:

Jungle

Sunlight:

Full sun to part shade

Plant Soil Type:

Well-drained, organically rich soil

Plant Moisture Requirements:

Prefers consistently moist soil

A broadleaf evergreen in northern South America and the West Indies, Cardinal's guard is grown as an annual in areas outside USDA Zone 10-11. This plant has scarlet red flowers and prefers full sun, although tolerates part shade, humid summers and continuous, even moisture. If grown as a houseplant, reduce watering in the winter and keep in a sunny window.

Cardinal's guard

United States Botanic Garden Conservatory