Heliophila juncea, Brachycarpaea juncea

Grown best in full sun or semi-shade, Heliophila juncea will reach a modest height of 2-5 ft, making it perfect for smaller gardens. This small plant loves plenty of water and is easy to care for. It can handle light frosts and survive with little care, however should be well-watered during the hot months of the summer.

To get optimum flowering, the soil should be well-draining, but with some retained moisture. To keep it flowering and healthy, add a general-purpose fertilizer once a month and prune back any old or dead growth.

When planting in pots, choose a well-draining potting mix like a cactus mix and make sure to add a slow-release fertilizer occasionally. With the hotter temperatures of USDA zone 9-11, extra care must be taken to ensure adequate water. A few inches of mulch will help keep the roots cool and prevent moisture loss.

It's easy to see why this beautiful native to South Africa is used so often in gardens and flower beds. The variety of flower color is sure to attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding life to any garden setting. Peeping pink, white, off-white, blue, lavender, and purple flowers, with four petals are tightly united together in a pinwheel fashion, will liven up any landscape. Heliophila juncea is an easy plant to grow and enjoy!