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Anisacanthus quadrifidus v. wrightii
This Anisacanthus is a medium-sized, deciduous shrub that
grows 4 to 5 feet tall and wide, with a rounded to irregular
shape. Its rich green leaves measure about 2 inches long by 1
inch wide. Bright cadmium red-orange flowers occur in terminal spikes on
the main stems and short lateral stems. These spikes can reach 8
inches long. Individual flowers are nearly 2 inches long with a
narrow tube and throat and spreading lobes. Flowers can appear
as early as June and continue through summer and into fall, with
the last flowers fading out in late October or November.
The
species is native to the rocky stream banks and plains of
southwest Texas and into Mexico.
A rapid to moderate growing plant depending on rainfall,
this plant is considered quite drought tolerant, but will flower
more heavily if provided summer irrigation. The flowers are very
attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies.
Not particularly
eye-catching in winter and is typically cut to the ground in
later winter to encourage new spring growth and to control the
size.
Soil tolerant with good drainage.
In full sun, can be a very showy addition to summer color. Has a long
foliage & blooming season when nothing else is blooming in mid summer.
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