How to Grow Cape Figwort
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Cape Figwort
Phygelius capensis
shrubCape Figwort is a semi-evergreen to deciduous shrub native to South Africa, known for its striking tubular flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow that bloom from summer through fall. The plant features attractive dark green foliage and attracts hummingbirds and bees, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens. It can be grown as a shrub or trained as a small specimen plant in containers.
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Example Cape Figwort timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cape Figwort
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Cape Figwort
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8-11; can be grown in zone 7b with winter protection
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Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung transplants with developing root systems and initial stem growth
Water regularly to establish roots; provide afternoon shade in hot climates during first month; shelter from strong winds
Vegetative Growth
6-10 weeksRapid leaf and stem development; plant fills out with dark green foliage
Water moderately; apply balanced fertilizer monthly; pinch back stem tips to encourage bushier growth if desired; prune lightly to shape
Budding
3-4 weeksFlower buds form at branch tips; red to orange buds become visible
Continue moderate watering; reduce nitrogen fertilizer, switch to bloom formula with higher phosphorus; ensure full sun exposure
Flowering
8-12 weeksTubular flowers open in succession, creating dense spikes of red, orange, and yellow blooms
Maintain consistent watering; deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming; provide support if stems become heavy; apply potassium-rich fertilizer every 2-3 weeks
Dormancy/Winter Decline
2-4 monthsFlowering slows or stops; foliage may become sparse or deciduous depending on climate and temperature
Reduce watering significantly; minimal fertilizing; cut back by one-third to one-half in spring; provide mulch in zones 8-9 for winter protection
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; spray leaves with water; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap in severe cases
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Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap; neem oil; improve air circulation
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Strong water spray; insecticidal soap; neem oil; introduce natural predators like ladybugs
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Manual removal; horticultural oil spray; insecticidal soap; systemic insecticide if severe
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Improve drainage; reduce watering frequency; remove affected plants; avoid waterlogged soil
Uses
Garden Display & Pollinator Attraction
OrnamentalCape Figwort's vibrant tubular flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens and mixed borders. The long blooming season provides nectar throughout late summer and fall. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
HouseholdThe striking flower spikes last well in fresh-cut arrangements and add exotic flair to bouquets and garden arrangements. Harvest in early morning for longest vase life. [source]
Traditional South African Medicine
MedicinalIn traditional South African herbalism, Cape Figwort has been used to address various ailments, though scientific evidence remains limited. Always consult healthcare providers before medicinal use. [source]
Hummingbird & Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeThe plant is specifically adapted to attract hummingbirds and is considered a key nectar source plant for gardens in warm climates, supporting local pollinator populations. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested. For ornamental purposes, deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. Cut flowers can be enjoyed fresh in arrangements; cut in the morning when buds are just opening for longest vase life (7-10 days).
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Cape Figwort is native to the Cape Floral Region of South Africa, one of the world's most biodiverse plant hotspots, and has evolved specifically to attract sunbirds (the African equivalent of hummingbirds) and other pollinators.
- 🌱 The genus name 'Phygelius' means 'flee sun' in Greek, though this plant actually thrives in full sun—the name may refer to related species or be a misnomer.
- 🌱 In zones colder than 8a, Cape Figwort can be grown as a tender annual or brought indoors as a container plant, often regrowing from the base after winter frost if protected with heavy mulch.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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