Photo of Cantua volcanica flower by Waltzing Matilija

Photo by Waltzing Matilija

Used with permission, all rights reserved

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Buy Cantua volcanica

Plant type

shrub

size

  • H: 2'-4'
  • W: 2'-4'

planting zones

  • 9a-11

Big Fella 4”x 6” | $21.95

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Fewer than 20 at Waltzing Matilija

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Cantua volcanica plant details

Cantua volcanica is an evergreen shrub with green foliage. In fall, spring, summer and winter purple flowers emerge. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - dappled shade and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average, lean, rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Cantua volcanica

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: polemoniaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 2 FT - 4 FT - wide, 2 FT - 4 FT - tall
Flowers: purple blooms in fall, spring, summer and winter
Uses: container plant, long-blooming

GROWING CONDITIONS for Cantua volcanica

USDA Zones: 9a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - dappled shade
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Soil needs: average, lean, rich and well-drained

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Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Cantua volcanica is a stunning little shrub native to Peru, where it is now endangered. Its purple/blue flowers peak in clusters throughout the cooler months but will often bloom during the warmer months too. The plant prefers full sun and well-draining soil, and can grow up to 3-4' tall in rich soil. In leaner (succulent) soils it tends to stay a bit lower and has a more open look.

Gardening facts about Cantua volcanica plant

How to Grow Cantua volcanica

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - dappled shade
  • Water Needs

    • occasional - drought tolerant
  • Soil Needs

    • adaptable
    • average
    • lean
    • well-drained
    • rich

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • purple
  • Wildlife

    • bees
  • Flower Season

    • winter
    • fall
    • summer
    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen

See other plant types of Cantua for your garden

aka Inca Bells, Magic Flower, Sacred Flower of the Andes, Sacred Flower of the Incas

Plant Type

Shrub

Zones

9b-11

Size

Height: 6'-8'

Width: 6'-8'

  • sun
  • regular - low
Photo of Cantua buxifolia flower by Wendy Cutler
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aka Golden Inca Sacred Flower of the Andes

Plant Type

Shrub

Zones

9a-11

Size

Height: 6'-8'

Width: 6'

  • mostly sun - mostly shade
  • even moisture - regular
Photo of Cantua buxifolia 'Golden Inca' flower by Annie's Annuals & Perennials
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Plant Type

Perennial

Zones

9a-11

Size

Height: 7'

Width: 7'

  • sun - shade
  • regular
Photo of Cantua 'Hot Pants' flower by Annie's Annuals & Perennials
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aka Cantua aggregata, Gilia aggregata, Gilia aggregata subsp. aggregata, Ipomopsis aggregata subsp. aggregta, Scarlet Gilia, Scarlet Trumpet Flower, Sky Trumpet, Skyrocket

Plant Type

Annual / Biennial

Zones

4a-10b

Size

Height: 2'-3'

Width: 6"-9"

  • sun
  • regular - drought tolerant
  • dry in summer
Photo of Ipomopsis aggregata by Panayoti Kelaidis
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aka Cantua fasciculata

Plant Type

Shrub

Zones

9b-11

Size

Height: 8'-15'

Width: 8'-15'

  • sun
  • low - drought tolerant
Photo of Fouquieria fasciculata foliage by Stan Shebs
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+1 more Cantua
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