Graptophyllum excelsum is an erect shrub with glossy foliage and red flowers in spring and summer.
The leaves are glossy, spathulate in shape and about 2cm in length. The scarlet red flowers are tubular in shape and grow from the leaf axis in ones or twos.
This attractive Australian native will grow in most areas of the eastern states providing the soil is well drained. Can be grown in a full sun or shady location but will produce many more flowers in a sunny location.
Graptophyllum excelsum is a great addition to a native garden, it can be grown as specimen plant, used as hedging or grown in a pot. The flowers produce lots of nectar and are good at attracting honey-eating birds.