How to identify Ribbon bush (Hypoestes aristata)

How to identify Ribbon bush (Hypoestes aristata)

Ribbon bush is an evergreen subshrub that reaches heights of 3-6 feet (91-183 cm) with a similar spread. It has erect stems with soft, dark green ovate leaves. In late autumn to early winter, ribbon bush comes alive with showy lavender flowers. These blooms are tightly clustered on terminal spikes, under leafy bracts, and are distinctive for their two-lipped formation with the upper lip reflexed back, showcasing white markings. Ideal for full sun to light shade, ribbon bush requires well-drained soil and tolerates occasional watering.

Lifespan: Perennial, Annual

Plant Type: Shrub

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Ribbon bush

Evergreen subshrub reaching 3-6 feet (91-183 cm) with erect stems.

Dark green ovate leaves, showy lavender flowers in late autumn.

Flowers in tight clusters on terminal spikes, two-lipped with reflexed upper lip.

Distinctive white markings on flower petals.

Prefers full sun to light shade, well-drained soil, tolerates occasional watering.

Ribbon bush and Their Similar Plants

Polka dot plant vs. Ribbon bush: What's The Difference?

The polka dot plant, also known as Hypoestes phyllostachya, has spots of colors on its variegated spiky leaves. This common houseplant is most often pink, but white and red varieties can be found. To make the color in the leaves of the polka dot plant as vibrant as possible, place it in indirect but bright sunlight.

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Key Facts About Ribbon bush

Attributes of Ribbon bush

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

61 cm to 1.5 m

Spread

30 cm

Stem Color

Green

Purple

Leaf type

Evergreen

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Scientific Classification of Ribbon bush

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Acanthus

Genus

Hypoestes

Species

Ribbon bush (Hypoestes aristata)

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Distribution Map of Ribbon bush

Ribbon bush is native to the tropical regions of Africa, where it thrives in a band stretching from the western Sahel to the eastern highlands and down to the southern tip of the continent. It has also been introduced to parts of Arabia. Now cultivated in various regions, ribbon bush has transcended its original range to grace gardens and landscapes beyond its indigenous territories.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Ribbon bush

A Comprehensive Guide to Ribbon bush How to Grow and Care for Ribbon bush