Life Saver Plant

A strange but beautiful species, this low-growing perennial has a habit of creeping, occasionally forming mats. Its most distinctive feature however is its bizarre blooms. With a glossy, raised, wine-red ring around the corolla tube, resembling a purple Lifesaver lolly, its star-shaped blooms have zebra stripes of varying colour intensity. Flowers also have a carrion scent, to attract pollinating flies. Four-sided stems have soft teeth along edges and in lower light appear deep green, with a reddish tinge in sunlight.

Does best in bright light to part shade, and appreciates a potting mix in containers with excellent drainage. Plant outdoors in raised beds. Native to Zimbabwe, Mozambique, South Africa and Swaziland.