shrub

Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas

Cantua buxifolia 'Tricolor'

The Story

Plant Bio

Evergreen shrub with striking flowers and glossy leaves.

Tricolor cultivar features a unique combination of red, yellow, and green foliage.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVibrant, variegated foliage and colorful flowers make it an eye-catching garden feature.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators and attracts hummingbirds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
  3. Transplant seedlings when they are 4-6 inches tall into full sun.
  4. Water deeply once a week during the growing season for vibrant growth.
  5. Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly from spring to summer.
  6. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and health.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently, especially during dry periods 🌱
  • Provide full sun for vigorous flowering
  • Use organic compost to enrich soil

Don't

  • Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
  • Prune in late fall or winter ❌
  • Use heavy soil that retains too much moisture ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border with variegated foliageDrought-tolerant shrub in xeriscapesVivid focal point in rock gardens

Companion Plants

Lavender SedumAgaveEchinaceaYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas questions

What zones can Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas grow in?

Tricolor Sacred 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 Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas deer resistant?

Yes — Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas bloom?

Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas need full sun?

Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tricolor Sacred Flower of the Incas handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Tricolor Sacred 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.