Philippine Violet

Common name(s): Philippine Violet

Scientific name: Barleria cristata

Plant family: ACANTHACEAE

Origin: India to southeast Asia

Description: Grows up to 4 – 6 feet. Spreads out 3 – 4 feet. A dense, upright,, hairy-stemmed, evergreen shrub. Elliptic to narrow – Ovate to oblong leaves that are dark green above and pale green beneath. Funnel-shaped, 2 inch long flowers that are pink, purple, white or mauve with white stripes. Blooms in axillary spikes on new growth. Flowering spring to late falL. Flowers are followed by seed pods.

Growing Conditions: Best grown in dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to light shade. Best flowering occurs with regular applications of fertilizer. Water dry to medium. Tolerate to drought and dry soil. Plant spacing requires 36 to 60 inches.

Wildlife:

Relation to Nehrling Gardens:

Location in Gardens: E-, F6, G10

Additional Information: Can be used for a hedge or border planting. Prune to the grown each spring to maintain a bushy plant and best appearance. “Weedy” and will readily reseed itself. 

Sponsored by: Carolyn Schretzmann Jebaily