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(Cantua buxifolia)
Sacred Flower Of The Incas (Cantua buxifolia)
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Krzysztof Golik
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Krzysztof Golik
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Krzysztof Golik | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Tournasol7 | Publisher: Wikipedia Commons
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Cantua buxifolia, commonly known as Sacred Flower Of The Incas, is an evergreen shrub native to the high-altitude, open scrublands of the Andes in South America. It can reach up to 4 meters (13 feet) in height and 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in width. The plant is characterized by its small, glossy green leaves and clusters of striking, pendulous, tubular flowers that are typically brilliant pink and bloom in early spring. The flowers are quite showy and can add a burst of color to the garden. Cantua buxifolia is also known for its cultural significance, as it is revered in Andean traditions.
This shrub is valued for its ornamental flowers and is often used in sheltered border plantings or as a specimen plant in mild climates. It has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating its exceptional qualities in garden settings. Cantua buxifolia requires protection from cold, withstanding temperatures down to −5 °C (23 °F). In regions with colder winters, it is best grown in a greenhouse or conservatory, although it may be placed outside during the warmer summer months. For optimal growth, it should be planted in full sun and in well-drained soil with moderate fertility. While it can tolerate low water conditions once established, regular watering during dry periods will promote healthier growth. Gardeners should be aware that this plant may not be hardy in regions with severe winters and should take precautions to protect it from frost.CC BY-SA 4.0
This shrub is valued for its ornamental flowers and is often used in sheltered border plantings or as a specimen plant in mild climates. It has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating its exceptional qualities in garden settings. Cantua buxifolia requires protection from cold, withstanding temperatures down to −5 °C (23 °F). In regions with colder winters, it is best grown in a greenhouse or conservatory, although it may be placed outside during the warmer summer months. For optimal growth, it should be planted in full sun and in well-drained soil with moderate fertility. While it can tolerate low water conditions once established, regular watering during dry periods will promote healthier growth. Gardeners should be aware that this plant may not be hardy in regions with severe winters and should take precautions to protect it from frost.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 4-8 feet
- Width: 5-8 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Pink, Purple, Red, White, Orange, Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low, Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
High-altitude, open scrublands of the Andes
Other Names
Common Names: Qantu, Qantus, Qantuta
Scientific Names: , Cantua buxifolia, Cantua ovata, Periphragmos dependens, Cantua tomentosa, Cantua buxifolia var. ovata, Cantua dependens, Cantua buxifolia var. lanceolata, Cantua uniflora, Cantua lanceolata
GBIF Accepted Name: Cantua buxifolia Juss. ex Lam.