Alberta

Family: Rubiaceae

There are only three to five species of this South African genus of ornamental shrubs or trees.

Species

A. magna, an evergreen shrub or small tree, is not freely available. It is seen in botanic gardens mostly, where it grows to between 2 and 5 m (6-16 ft), although it can reach up to 9 m (30 ft) in its native habitat. It is grown for its glossy, dark green leaves and its attractive, erect spikes of tubular orange-red flowers in winter and spring.

Cultivation

In frost-prone Climates alberta can be grown in pots or in a soil bed in a cool greenhouse or conservatory. Propagation is from cuttings but these may present a challenge.

Climate

Zone 10 and above. Thrives in warm coastal areas.