Acanthaceae
Whitfieldia elongata
White Candles
Available in our catalogue
We propagate this species and you can order it from our catalogue.
View in catalogue →About
This evergreen shrub, which can also scramble, typically grows 3-5 metres tall. It features glossy, dark green, elliptic leaves and produces conspicuous, pure white, tubular flowers, 5-7.5 cm long, often with a petaloid calyx. These flowers are arranged in terminal panicles or racemes and bloom prolifically throughout most of the year.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for a Kilifi-coast garden, this shade-loving shrub thrives in bright to mostly shaded locations, tolerating early morning sun but preferring afternoon shade. Plant in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil, suitable as a specimen plant or for creating attractive borders. Its natural habitat, including coastal tropical forests, suggests it will flourish in Kilifi's conditions.
Growing notes
Whitfieldia elongata has an average growth rate and requires consistent moisture once established; avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, as plants will wilt. It prefers warm temperatures and high humidity, thriving in USDA Zones 10-11. Pinching stem tips promotes a bushier growth habit.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: grokipedia.com, theferns.info, chicagobotanic.org, kew.org, drcongoflora.com, monaconatureencyclopedia.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.