This large shrub to small tree has rough greyish bark and spreading greenish branches that form a rounded crown. It has leathery dark green elliptical leaves and the bright red tube-shaped flowers appear in a terminal cluster from summer to autumn.

Hardiness zones 9 to 10

Alberta magnais naturally found in South Africa from the Eastern Cape to KwaZulu-Natal growing in forest floors and valleys from sea level to an altitude of 1,800 m (5,905 ft).

It prefers a semi-shaded to sunny protected coastal position and grows in most well drained moderately fertile sandy to clay soils and is ph adaptable. It is a frost and drought tender and prefers a moist summer but grows very slowly.

The Natal Flame Bush is grown for its flowers and tree-like habit. It is planted along garden borders the screening and to attract birds or grown as a specimen in parks. It is also planted in large rock gardens or used in seaside settings tolerating salt laden wind.

It is suitable coastal and low-mountain regions and establishes in 3-5 years and is long lived. This small tree is planted in courtyards for shade or can be used in large planter boxes, under glass in cold climates. ID 2605

Alberta (al-BER-tuh) magna (MAG-na)

Rubiaceae (ROO-bee-AY-see-ee)
Coffee and Madder Family