Diascia Genta Ruby Plug Plants

Diascia 'Genta Ruby' is an improved variety of diascia, with a compact and bushy habit, and gorgeous deep pink flowers, larger than those of other varieties. It quickly forms a rounded mound bearing many brightly coloured flowers that bloom from spring until the first frost, among its small heart-shaped leaves. This tender perennial plant loves the sun and well-drained soils. Well known for its use in hanging baskets and containers, it is also very attractive in rockeries or low borders.

Diascia 'Genta Ruby' belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is a recent cultivar derived from Diascia barberae, native to southern Africa, specifically Lesotho and KwaZulu-Natal. 'Genta Ruby' is part of a series of hybrids that includes selected varieties with a compact and dense habit, more brightly coloured flowers, and a longer flowering period. This less hardy perennial plant has a highly branched habit, forming a neat little bush, even in the rain, measuring 25cm (9.8in) in all directions. Flowering begins in spring and lasts until the first frost. It produces clusters of intense purple-pink flowers with a wide lip, enhanced by a red throat, extending downward with two spurs. The diameter of the flowers does not exceed 2cm (0.8in). These flowers somewhat resemble snapdragons. The foliage, deciduous to semi-evergreen in winter depending on the climate, consists of small 2cm (0.8in) long, heart-shaped leaves with toothed edges, of medium olive green colour.

Due to its tender nature, Diascia 'Genta Ruby' is grown as an annual plant in our regions. It can be used in the ground and in pots, planted en masse in borders, as a standalone or mixed with other low-growing species such as Lithodora, silver baskets, and aubrieta. Given its bushy, erect, and branching habit, it will look good in a mass planting, in a flower bed, as ground cover, in a rockery, in a flowerpot, or in a hanging basket, in the gaps of walls and paving stones. In a floral composition, it can be combined, for example, with morning glories, Nemophila, lobelias, and Isotomas.

Note: Attention, our young plants in mini pots are professional products reserved for experienced gardeners: upon receipt, transplant and store them under cover (veranda, greenhouse, cold frame...) at a temperature above 14C° for a few weeks before being installed outdoors once the risk of frost is definitively eliminated.