Blue fountain bush - Rotheca serrata (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Blue fountain bush

Also known as: Beetle killer

Blue fountain bush (Rotheca serrata) is a small flowering bush native to India and Malaysia. It makes a beautiful ornamental shrub thanks to its distinctive and showy flowers. The flowerheads and young leaves are also edible, and often served in salad.

Scientific classification

Species

Blue fountain bush (Rotheca serrata)

Mints plantains olives and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Green

Leaf Color

25 cm

Flower Size

White, Blue, Purple

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Blue fountain bush

Distribution of Blue fountain bush

Distribution Map

Blue fountain bush is a plant with a wide natural distribution across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of East Asia. Its range extends through regions that encompass subtropical and tropical climates, flourishing in a variety of habitats within these broad geographical areas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Blue fountain bush

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted for drought, blue fountain bush conserves water effectively, requiring watering every 2-3 weeks. Thriving outdoors, it needs well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging during heavy rains, ensuring resilience against varying weather conditions.

Fertilize: Blue fountain bush thrives with balanced nutrition from monthly feeding during the growing season using half-strength, water-soluble fertilizer. In winter, reduce feeding to every 6-8 weeks. Always water thoroughly before and after fertilization to avoid root burn, ensuring robust health and vibrant blooms.

Pruning: Blue fountain bush features vibrant blue flowers and requires early spring pruning to remove dead branches and thin dense areas for better light and air circulation. Cutting back old wood after flowering encourages blooms. Use clean, sharp tools and provide proper aftercare for optimal health.

Propagation: Blue fountain bush, native to Africa, is an ornamental shrub with striking blue flowers. Propagation through cuttings of healthy, non-flowering stems in a well-draining medium and high humidity ensures robust root establishment. Semi-hardwood cuttings promote a dense, lush growth similar to the parent plant.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Blue fountain bush