Pavonia multiflora A.St.-Hil.

Taxonomy and Common Names

Pavonia multiflora, commonly known as Brazilian candles or many flowers, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Hibisceae tribe of the mallow family, Malvaceae.

Native Range and Growth Form

It is an evergreen shrub native to Brazil.

Size and Foliage

It grows to a height between 1.5 and 2.5 metres (4 ft 11 in to 8 ft 2 in), and produces dark green, glossy foliage.

Leaf Characteristics

Its leaves are lance-shaped, reaching around six inches in length.

Flower and Bract Characteristics

Red or dark pink bracts surround upright cone-shaped purple flowers that measure roughly 6 cm across, which have protruding dark blue stamens.

Flowering Period

Its flowering season typically runs from late spring to early fall, but it can bloom throughout the entire winter when grown in suitable conditions.

Cultivation Requirements in Temperate Regions

In temperate regions, it is most commonly grown as a houseplant, where it needs a humid environment and temperatures above 10 °C (50 °F).

Horticultural Award

This plant has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.