Here's another strange, wonderful thing from Strange Wonderful Things. :-) Agapetes serpens is an unusual rarity from the Himalayas with long, arching stems adorned with scarlet, jewel-like blooms. Pronounced "Ag-uh-PET-eez", the name comes from the Greek word for "beloved" - which it certainly is. The fascinating patterns of this charming plant make it a real eye-catcher in the garden! This is a cool-climate species that might not thrive in hot areas. If you can provide the right conditions, it's a rewarding plant that is rarely available online.

The fully-open flowers

Agapetes is an odd member of the Blueberry family. It forms large, caudex-like tubers that are partly exposed. These send up arching branches to about 4-5 feet tall. The branches themselves are beautiful, with their artistic rows of small, evergreen leaves that are often tinged with red. The delightful blooms appear from about February through June, and occasionally other times of the year. The inflated, 1" flowers have an interesting chevron pattern, and almost look like little Chinese lanterns. After flowering, attractive berries appear that look like lavender pearls!

Agapetes comes from the cool foothills of the Himalayas, where temperatures range from about 32° to the low-80s, with cooler nights. It may not do well in consistently hot areas, particularly if nights are warm. It can probably survive several degrees of frost, but it's happiest with temperatures above freezing. It grows well indoors in a pot or hanging planter. It looks terrific when placed at eye-level, where it can be admired up close. It appreciates sun, but give it some protection from strong, afternoon sun. Use a soil mix that is airy and slightly-acidic, and give regular watering.

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For detailed growing tips about this plant, click here.