Brazilian Red Cloak 15G

Brazilian Red Cloak – Megaskepasma erythrochlamys (15 Gallon Pot) available in Jupiter, FL.

The Brazilian Red Cloak is a bold, tropical statement plant with striking crimson flower bracts and lush, deep green foliage. This 15-gallon specimen is mature and ready to thrive in your South Florida landscape, delivering instant color, privacy, and pollinator appeal. Native to Venezuela and the broader tropical Americas, this shrub thrives in warm, humid climates and performs exceptionally well in South Florida’s subtropical environment.

A member of the Acanthaceae family and Dicotyledonae class, Megaskepasma erythrochlamys is admired for its spectacular flowering display and its ability to grow quickly into a dense, upright shrub or small hedge. It’s ideal for tropical gardens, privacy screens, or as a flowering focal point in large containers.

Key Features:

• Botanical Name: Megaskepasma erythrochlamys

• Common Name: Brazilian Red Cloak

• Family: Acanthaceae

• Class: Dicotyledonae

• Pot Size: 15 Gallon

• Mature Height: 8–12 feet

• Spread: 4–6 feet

• Bloom Time: Fall through early spring in South Florida

• USDA Zones: 9b–11

Sunlight Needs:
Prefers part shade to bright indirect light. In South Florida, plant where it receives morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Too much direct sun can fade the color and stress the plant.

Watering:
Requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water deeply 2–3 times per week during dry spells. Mulch well to retain soil moisture. Avoid allowing the soil to fully dry out.

Soil Requirements:
Thrives in rich, well-drained soil with high organic content. Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0) is ideal. Amend sandy soils with compost or aged manure for best results.

Fertilization:
Apply a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer. For more blooms, choose a formula with slightly higher phosphorus. Regular feeding supports vibrant growth and flowering.

Pest & Disease Tips:
Relatively pest-free. Occasionally susceptible to aphids or whiteflies in overly dry or crowded conditions. Encourage airflow and treat with neem oil if needed. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.

Maintenance & Pruning:
Prune after blooming to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Can be maintained as a large shrub or trimmed into a soft hedge. Remove any frost-damaged stems in early spring.

Special Notes for South Florida Gardeners:

• Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies with its bold red bracts and nectar-rich blooms.

• Cold-sensitive below 35°F—provide protection or cover during rare cold snaps.

• Pairs well with tropicals like heliconia, calathea, and ginger for a layered, jungle-inspired look.

• Works beautifully as a privacy hedge, specimen plant, or anchor in mixed tropical beds.

Jupiter Farms & Nursery