The Story
Plant Bio
Evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub prized for its pendulous, trumpet-shaped flowers. It has a somewhat weeping or arching habit with small, gray-green leaves.
The national flower of Peru and one of two national flowers of Bolivia. It is known as the 'Sacred Flower of the Incas' and is very attractive to hummingbirds.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
96 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity, taking about 6 weeks.
- Transplant young plants after the last frost for best growth.
- Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during spring and summer.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant
- Apply organic mulch to retain moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not fertilize in late fall
- Avoid planting in heavy clay soil without amendment
- Don’t neglect winter protection in colder zones
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Flower of the Incas questions
What zones can Flower of the Incas grow in?
Flower of the Incas is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Flower of the Incas deer resistant?
Yes — Flower of the Incas is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Flower of the Incas bloom?
Flower of the Incas typically blooms in spring to summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Flower of the Incas need full sun?
Flower of the Incas does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Flower of the Incas drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Flower of the Incas handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Flower of the Incas with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.