Randia sp. 'Joseph Fondeur' (Randia)

Randia sp. (Randia) 'Joseph Fondeur' yellow flower with purple dots, close up.

Randia sp. (Randia) 'Joseph Fondeur' yellow flower with purple dots open on dark foliage.

Botanical name: Randia sp.

Common name: Randia

Cultivar: Joseph Fondeur

Family: Rubiaceae

Origin: Peru

USDA Zone: 9-11

Plant form: Large bush or small tree

Mature height: 10-20 ft

Sun exposure: Semi-shade

Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.

Watering: Regular

Flower color: White and off-white; unusual color

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Randia sp. Joseph Fondeur or Randia as it is commonly known as is a large shrub or a small tree native to Peru Lake Sandoval. It has an upright growth pattern, reaching a height of 5-10 feet in the shrub form and 10-20 feet when it is trained into a tree. It is best grown in semi-shaded areas and prefers regular watering.

In the summer months, Randia is known for its gorgeous white and off-white flowers that bloom during the warmer season. Interestingly, the trumpet-like blooms are unusually colored in chartreuse with splashes of burgundy. The light green corrugated leaves are also quite eye catching.

USDA Zone 9-11 is the ideal environment for growing this unusual tree. Colder regions may still be able to accommodate Randia, but extra care must be taken. When growing Randia in a pot in colder regions, the container should be raised off the ground to allow drainage.