Foldwing, Purple Drop (Dicliptera resupinata)

Foldwing, Purple Drop
Scientific Name: Dicliptera resupinata (Vahl) Juss.
Synonym: Justicia resupinata
Family: Acanthaceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset:
USDA: 8b-11

Frost Tolerance: Die to the ground in winter
Heat Tolerance: Arizona native
Sun Exposure: Light shade to part sun
Origin: USA (Arizona, New Mexico), northwestern Mexico (Jalisco, Sonora, Chihuahua, Durango)
Growth Habits: Perennial subshrub, up to 2 feet tall (60 cm), 4 feet in spread (1.2 m), densely branching; lanceolate leaves, 2 inches long (5 cm)
Watering Needs: Low water use, needs good drainage
Propagation: Seeds, cuttings

The Dicliptera is one interesting resource in the southwest deserts, since it is one of the plants that bloom in the shade. It is also left alone by most rodents and rabbits.

Blooming Habits:
Pink flowers, 0.25 inch wide (6 mm). The Dicliptera blooms over a long period in spring and fall.

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