Family: Lamiaceae
Shower of Orchids is a flowering vine or creeping shrub. The common name is a bit misleading as it is not related to orchids.
When in bloom, it puts on a stunning display of color. The flowers are tiny and insignificant. It’s the showy bracts surrounding the flower that commands attention. Brilliant pink or lavender in color, the bracts resemble soft, velvety propellors. Children and adults enjoy launching the bracts in the air, watching as they spin to the ground like a helicopter. Blooming occurs from December to April and lasts several weeks. The vibrant color fades and turns grey over several weeks. When dried and preserved well, the shower of orchids blooms are long-lasting in dried flower arrangments.
It needs support as a vine. Train the shower of orchids vine to a trellis, arbor, or fence. If pruned correctly, it can be trained as a bush. Some vines, even pono ones, can get out of hand and become a landscaping nightmare. It requires shelter from the wind.
Native to Thailand and Burma.
Plant Uses:
- Container plant
- Cut flower
- Hedge
- Ornamental
- Privacy / screening
Plant Dangers:
- No dangers
