Every year I receive a new, special plant for my birthday. This year's addition is Musseanda erythrophylla. It also goes by the common name of Tropical Dogwood.
The dusty pink bracts lined with a deep fuchsia/red are show stopping in the South Florida landscape where such delicate bouquets do not stand up against the hot tropical sun.
It's difficult to resist the hydrangea-like appearance. I can't get enough of it!
However, this plant does not seem to be a 'no fuss no muss' specimen. It does not appreciate drought which is a factor during the winter/spring dry season. This beauty will require some extra watering and attention during the dry months.
To add to the spectacular dusty rose display, the Musseanda produces small flowers. The pink bouquets are actually leaves, or bracts. The flower is a cheerful yellow with an interesting embossed appearance.
They look like star fish, don't they?
Interest does not stop with the appearance...
it continues with the soft, fuzzy stems and medium-green leaves.
If you look closely you can see the small fuzzy hairs. It feels like peach fuzz!
Native to Eastern and Central Africa/ Tanzania/ Congo regions, Musseanda is a sprawling shrub that grows to 10 feet tall. I'll keep mine pruned for a less leggy, thicker attractive appearance. They like full to partial sun...partial sun in my zone 10 garden where the afternoon sun can wilt and burn the hardiest specimen. They are also acid loving plants so my pine covered landscape will serve it well.
Pink is not the only color...there are many to choose from.
But this one is my favorite!
