Family: Rubiaceae
Ornamental shrubs native to the Phillippines. 150 varieties exist, many are named for the first ladies of Phillippines presidents. Colors range from pink, red, yellow, white-blooming Spring through Fall. A striking evergreen plant, they grow to 10 feet tall and have a round shape. They tolerate heavy pruning.
In general, it is a low maintenance plant that drops little to no rubbish. Sensitive to salt and wind. For the brightest flowers, keep in full sun. Pollinators are attracted to vivid colors — propagation from cuttings and air layers.
Plant Uses:
- Container plant
- Medicinal
- Ornamental
- Specimen
Plant Dangers:
- No dangers
High Risk Traits:
- Shade tolerant
- Intentionally spread by people (ornamental)
- Tolerates heavy pruning and regrows after damage
- Bird-dispersed seeds (fleshy fruit)
- Congeneric weeds exist
Low Risk Traits:
- No evidence of naturalization or weediness
- No spines, thorns, or burrs
- Non-toxic (humans and animals)
- No major pests or pathogens
- Not a climbing or smothering habit
- Does not form dense thickets
- Rarely produces seeds in cultivation
- No wind, water, or external animal dispersal
- No persistent seed bank
