Strobilanthes formosana Plant Care

Strobilanthes formosana (Strobilanthes formosana) belongs to the Acanthaceae family within the Strobilanthes genus. Strobilanthes formosana is native to Taiwan.

Strobilanthes formosana displays an upright, bushy shrub growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Strobilanthes formosana produces tubular flowers in shades of blue, purple, or white.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Strobilanthes formosana every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Strobilanthes formosana thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Strobilanthes formosana in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Strobilanthes formosana tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Strobilanthes formosana prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining, fertile soil with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Strobilanthes formosana to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Strobilanthes formosana every 4 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with bright indirect light and well-draining, fertile soil with added organic matter. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Strobilanthes formosana is suited to USDA Zone 13b.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Strobilanthes formosana can spread to about 2 ft (0.6 m) and reach about 3 ft (1 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.6 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Strobilanthes formosana while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Strobilanthes formosana is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 13). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Strobilanthes formosana can be propagated through stem cuttings, division. Similar propagation techniques also apply to purple waffle plant plant care, which shares the same genus.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Strobilanthes formosana is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Strobilanthes formosana grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Strobilanthes formosana is native to Taiwan. In cooler regions, grow Strobilanthes formosana as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.