Strobilanthes hamiltoniana (Chinese Rain Bells, Temple Bells)
Botanical Information
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Strobilanthes |
| Species | hamiltoniana |
| Synonyms | Strobilanthes colorata, Ruellia hamiltoniana. |
| Category | Perennials, Tropicals |
| Origin | Chinese Rain Bell originates from the warm temperate to subtropical regions of the Himalayas, Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand. |
Details
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 9 - 11 |
| USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
| Canadian Hardiness Zone | Requires cold season protection under glass. |
| Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
| RHS Hardiness Zone | H1c - H3 |
| RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
| Temperature (°C) | -1 - 10 |
| Temperature (°F) | 35 - 50 |
| Height | 2 m |
| Growth | Medium |
| Flowering Period | January, October, November, December |
Description and Growing Information
| General Description | A perennial plant that grows about to 2 to 4 metres tall. |
| ID Characteristic | It is identified by the much branched, diffuse inflorescences bearing purple flowers, and the secondary veins which protrude from the leaf surface. |
| Propagation | This plant is propagated easily by cuttings. |
| Cultivation | Grows well in a partly shaded, moist, well-drained soil. Needs to be cut back in early spring. |
| Notable Specimens | Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, Florida, United State of America. |
| Leaf Description | Glossy green leaves are up to 15 cm long, drooping with distinctive rib-like veins and edges. |
| Flower Description | Showy, pink, tubular flowers are produced on stalks above the foliage in late autumn and early winter; ending at the first freeze. |
Photographs
Strobilanthes hamiltoniana, form, Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, Florida, United States of America.
Strobilanthes hamiltoniana, flower, Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, Florida, United States of America.
Strobilanthes hamiltoniana, flower head, Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, Florida, United States of America.
Strobilanthes hamiltoniana, flower, Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, Florida, United States of America.