Tecoma capensis (syn. Tecomaria), Cape Honeysuckle

Another South African plant to blow you away, Tecomaria capensis is a fast-growing shrub with rose-like emerald foliage that gets covered in sprays of scarlet, tubular flowers. In cooler climates, this plant is deciduous and grows as an upright woody sub-shrub; in warm climates, this plant is an evergreen, delicious giant easily kept as a practically ever-blooming hedge or as a large screening plant. Blooms on new growth. Drought-tolerant once established. Best grown in sun or part sun with regular summer water in fast-draining, leaner soil. Most commonly killed, if hardy in your region, by poor drainage or over-fertilizing. Mulch heavily if on the edge of hardiness. Note to northern friends, it's happily kept in a container if you have a heated greenhouse.  Mature size: 12-15 ft T x 6 ft W if evg; otherwise 3-6 ft T x W Minimum temperature: 20° F