Chrysothemis, Squarestem

Chrysothemis pulchella (Donn ex Sims) Decne. ‘Black Flamingo’

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Gesneriaceae

Explanation of name:  Chrysothemis was a demi-goddess in Greek mythology. (http://www.theoi.com/Georgikos/Khrysothemis.html).  Pulchella means pretty.

Natural range: Tropical America (not Florida)

Recognition: Herbaceous perennial with large, opposite, wrinkled, purple-colored opposite leaves reminiscent of Strobilanthes. Flowers having scarlet calyx and yellow corolla. Commercially dominant cultivar is ‘Black Flamingo’.

Landscape uses:  Herbaceous novelty with colorful textured leaves and bright (but small) flowers.  Produces basal and axillary tubers. Slightly succulent. Containers,  protected gardens.

Internet sources: http://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/Chrysothemis_pulchella.htm