Ribbon bush (Hypoestes aristata)

Ribbon bush

Ribbon bush (Hypoestes aristata) is a fast-growing evergreen shrub that can grow as tall as a person. It blooms from fall to winter with violet-blue flowers that attract hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators. The ribbon bush grows in full sun and partial shade, and is tolerant of salty coastal areas.

Scientific classification

Species

Ribbon bush (Hypoestes aristata)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

All year round

Bloom Time

61 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Purple, White, Pink

Flower Color

Green, Purple

Stem Color

Images of Ribbon bush

Distribution of Ribbon bush

Distribution Map

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

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest margin

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Name Story

Hypoestes aristata: Ribbon bush gets its common name from the Greek language. It comes from two Greek words; the first word is hypo, which means under, and the second is estia, which means a house. This combination of words describes the way the bracts of the plant cover its calyx. The second half of the name refers to arista, which means awn and ata, which means possessing. This combination of words describes the inner bracts of the flower.

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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.

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Care Guide for Ribbon bush

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Ribbon bush thrives in subtropical conditions, requiring consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Weekly watering is essential to maintain balance. Cultivated indoors, it benefits from managed humidity levels, crucial for its vibrant foliage and mimicking its natural habitat.

Fertilize: To enhance ribbon bush's growth, apply balanced, slow-release fertilizers biannually in spring and mid-summer for lush foliage and blooms. Water after application and avoid contact with leaves. Monitor feeding during growth surges and dormancy. Use gloves to prevent skin reactions from ribbon bush.

Pruning: Ribbon bush thrives with early spring pruning to enhance its vibrant leaves and bushy growth. Remove damaged stems and shape overly long branches to encourage healthy growth and more flowers. Regular pruning maintains compact form, improves air circulation, and reduces disease risk. Use clean, sharp tools.

Propagation: Ribbon bush can be propagated through stem cuttings from healthy plants. Cuttings should air-dry to callous, and using rooting hormone may improve success. Place in well-draining soil, maintaining constant moisture and warm temperatures to support rooting, which is typically successful with proper care.

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