Jacobinia (Justicia carnea ), also known as the flamingo plant and the Brazilian plume, is a herbaceous flowering shrub, native to South America. Jacobinia grows 3 to 4 feet in height and blooms in spikes of tubular flowers in a variety of colors, depending upon variety. Jacobinia is a versatile plant and is grown in containers, as foundation plantings and even trained into an espalier. Jacobinia is hardy to USDA Zones 8b to 11.
Grow your jacobinia flowers in the shade.
Water the jacobinia often enough to keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy.
Fertilize jacobinia in spring, summer and early fall with a balanced fertilizer, such as 6-6-6, at the rate suggested on the package. Always water after fertilizing.
Remove dead flowers throughout the growing season. Pinch off the tips of new growth if you want to encourage the jacobinia to produce new branches.
Check the jacobinia periodically for spider mite infestations. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap sprays, applied at the rate suggested on the label.