Easy and fast-growing, best placed in semi-shade, although they will grow in full shade. Fairly hardy, the plants handle a wide range of rainfall and climatic temperatures, producing lush foliage when receiving ample water, although able to still do very well with less. They will tolerate poor soil, but take note that lots of compost with organic or chemical, slow-release fertiliser added to the soil, will give plants a good boost and improve performance. Spread a layer of mulch on the surface of the soil after planting, and renew regularly to mimic their natural habitat’s forest floor conditions. Prune to shape and keep neat and to encourage more flowers, nip off the shoots in spring and early summer. To prevent yellowing of leaves and to encourage growth, feed the plant each season with an organic or inorganic fertiliser.

Provides colour throughout early or midsummer to midwinter, providing much needed interest in the garden at this time. Best positioned under the canopy of trees or large shrubs, massed and grouped together for best effect. Excellent used as fillers, in mixed informal beds and borders or on a shady patio planted in a container.

Can be grown from seed, and seeds itself freely in the garden, but good results can be obtained much quicker from stem and tip cuttings, which can be taken all year long.

The seeds must be collected before the seeds are dispersed, when the seed capsules turn brown. Sow in spring in a well-drained soil mix and cover lightly with the sowing medium. Keep trays in a shaded area. To prevent pre- and post-emergence damping-off, the seed should be treated with a fungicide prior to sowing, or watered with a fungicide immediately after sowing. Transplant the seedlings after the first pair of true leaves have emerged, or when they are large enough to handle, into individual bags/pots. Feed generously with a liquid fertiliser and water moderately.

Roots easily from nodal cuttings, 50–80 mm long; dip the base of tip or stem cuttings into a hormone powder to stimulate fast-root development and place in a mixture of even parts good soil and river sand. Put the cuttings in a shady place and water to not let them dry out completely, but don’t keep them saturated. Use a liquid fertiliser and Kelpak to encourage strong roots and growth. Transplant the rooted cuttings after about 2 months into a good soil mixture in small growing pots, with drainage holes and grow on until large enough to plant out into the garden.

The plant has few pests or disease problems, if kept too wet, or planted or positioned incorrectly, mealy bug infestations can occur, in which case, treat with a suitable recommended pesticide.