Eranthemum pulchellum (ACANTHACEAE) Blue Sage

Eranthemum pulchellum (syn. Eranthemum nervosum) is a long-flowering evergreen shrub native to India but widely naturalised in the tropics. Pronunciation: eer-RANTH-ee-mum pul-KEL-um.

Newly naturalised in Enoggera catchment, several decent-sized populations consisting of numerous individuals from seedlings to large shrubby plants almost 2 m tall. Yet another naturalised Acanthaceae, of which there have been dozens of new naturalisations recorded recently (early 2007). Weed risk high because of the density of the clumps.

The ovate dark green leaves have white veins and small teeth. The plant prefers light shade, not frost hardy. A popular greenhouse plant.

Long-flowering, terminal clusters of nearly true-blue flowers with just a tinge of purple (in winter). Pulchellum means “pretty”. Eranthemum means “beautiful flower”.