Common Name: Brazilian Red Cloak
Scientific Name: Megaskepasma erythrochlamys Lindau
Family: Acanthaceae
Etymology
Genus:
Greek
Mega - large,
skepasma - covering, refers to the bracts that enclose the flowers.
Species epithet
Latin
erythro - red
, chlamys - cloak
Distribution
Native to Venezuela and occurs naturally in Nicaragua, Panama and Suriname. Introduced to Costa Rica, Hawaii and Trinidad-Tobago.
Native Habitat
Rainforest understorey.
Description
An attractive multi-branched, woody shrub to 3 metres. Striking crimson spikes, comprising bracts enclosing white flowers appear in late autumn. Leaves are glossy, ovate-elliptic to 50 cm long with prominent venation.
Flowers and Fruit
Conspicuous crimson bracts surround white flowers iwith two-lipped corollas. The lower lip is recurved and twisted and the upper erect and hooded. Fruit is a four-seeded oblong capsule.
Location in Garden
Conservatorium of Music and Palace Garden. To find additional locations and other plants in our garden, use our new
Garden Explorer plant finder.
Information
This is the only species in the genus Megaskepasma (monotypic). However, it belongs to a large family, Acanthaceae consisting of more than 200 genera and 3000 species of mostly tropical herbs, shrubs and vines. Explore more ornamental examples of this family in our Acanthaceae garden next to the Succulent Garden.
Hardy in frost free areas, this attractive shrub is perfect for creating a tropical look to the garden. Grows in full sun with protection from westerly afternoon sun and winds appreciated. Will also grow in semi-shaded areas even with heavy root competition, but flowering is best with a sunny aspect. They appreciate a free draining soil enriched with organic material and regular water. The striking crimson bracts and white flowers bring a welcome splash of colour to the late autumn garden and the bracts persist into early winter.
This is one of the unique plants propagated by volunteers from our living collection for sale to the public at our Growing Friends Nursery. The nursery is located next to our Foundation and Friends office and is open Monday to Friday 11am – 2pm and Saturday 10am – 2 pm.
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