Flemingia strobilifera, Moghania strobilifera

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Flemingia strobilifera (Luck Plant, Wild Hops) is native to Asia and Malaysia. It's an evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub or small tree that grows 5-10 ft tall and 10-20 ft wide. The foliage is a deep, unusual shade of olive which nicely contrasts with the white or pink inflorescences. It blooms from spring to summer, producing clusters of small flowers that attract bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects. Plants grow best in full sun or semi-shade and require moderate water, especially in summer and during times of extended drought.

The luck plant is valued in ethnomedical systems and is also an attractive garden addition, with its graceful arching branches and unusual color. In cold regions, it may be best to grow the Flemingia strobilifera in a pot, where it will be easy to move the plant indoors when temperatures drop. The mature plants can tolerate temperatures of at least 30sF for a short time, so care must be taken not to leave them outside in freezing temperatures. In zones 9-11, the plant can be planted outside year-round with proper winter protection.