Cardinals Guard

Cardinals Guard Care

Pachystachys Coccinea

What is the plant

Pachystachys coccinea, the Cardinals guard, is a perennial evergreen shrub native to French Guiana, Brazil, and Peru It has ovate to elliptic dark leaves and red flowers on terminal spikes, and can grow to be two to six feet tall, though cultivated plants tend to be shorter.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Full Sun

Hardiness zone

10 - 11

Difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Even though shrimp plants tolerate moist soil, it does well when the surface of the soil dries slightly between waterings, particularly in the winter months. When watering, water thoroughly – enough to saturate the roots to a depth of about 6″ inches. If plants dry out accidentally, soak them in water and drain off the excess to make sure the potting mix becomes thoroughly moist and saturated. When growing golden shrimp plants in pots, consider a self-watering container.
Pruning
Prune Pachystachys For Shape And Size. The Pachystachys lutea requires minor maintenance to keep it looking its best. Prune plants in early spring to ensure they maintain the desired shape and size. Without pruning plants become long, leggy, and top-heavy.
Fertilizer
During the growing season (spring to fall) apply liquid foods regularly and blooming fertilizer occasionally to ensure that the plant looks its best. Always apply the fertilizer according to rate specifications on the label. Immediately after applying a complete fertilizer, always water the plant. However, avoid excessive fertilization as it weakens the plant making it more susceptible to insects and disease.

Disease diagnosis

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Sunlight
Best grown in full sun to part shade.
Soil
Best grown in fertile, organically rich, continuously moist to boggy soils.
Temperature
60-80°F (16-27°C). Not frost resistant.