Agapetes serpens

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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 definitely is. The fascinating patterns of this charming plant make it a real attention-getter 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 seen for sale.

Agapetes serpens

The fully-open flowers

Agapetes is an odd member of the Blueberry family (Ericaceae). It forms a large, caudex-like base up to 6 inches wide. From the base emerges long, arching, evergreen branches about 3 to 5 feet long. The branches themselves are beautiful, with their artistic rows of small, closely-spaced 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 inch flowers have an interesting chevron pattern, and almost resemble little Chinese lanterns. After flowering, attractive berries appear that look like lavender pearls!

Agapetes serpens

The caudex-like base

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 thrive in temperatures consistently above 85 degrees, especially if nights are warm. It can probably survive several degrees of frost, but it's happiest if kept above freezing. It grows well indoors in a pot or hanging planter. It looks great 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 slightly-acidic soil mix that is well draining, such 1 part potting soil to 1 part perlite or coarse sand. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist. Over about 40% humidity is recommended.

Agapetes serpens

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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Detailed growing tips about this plant