Heterocentron

This is a small group of frost-tender perennials from Mexico, Honduras and Guatemala. This plant, commonly known as Spanish Shawl, is a thick, creeping plant, which will grow to 2 inches high and spread endlessly. Its small, oval to oblong leaves are medium green and bristly to downy. In the summer and fall, an abundance of small, 4-petaled, bright magenta- to mauve-colored flowers are produced.

Pot Cultivation

Spanish Shawls need a minimum temperature of 41 degrees. In cooler atmospheres, grow in a house or greenhouse in well-drained soil or potting mix, in full sun. They are suitable for sunny banks outdoors in frost-free areas.

Propagation

Use softwood or stem cuttings in late winter or early spring.

H. elegans

VARIETIES

• H. elegans;
• H. roseum & var. album.