Schizanthus pinnatus

Common Name: Butterfly Flower, Poor Man’s Orchid

Description:
Schizanthus pinnatus, commonly known as Butterfly Flower or Poor Man’s Orchid, is a vibrant annual prized for its orchid-like blooms in shades of pink, purple, white, and red, often with intricate markings. Flowering from late spring through autumn, this showy plant thrives in Melbourne’s climate, preferring well-drained soil and full sun to part shade. Its bushy, upright habit makes it ideal for garden beds, borders, and pots, where it adds a splash of colour for months. Despite its delicate appearance, Schizanthus pinnatus is easy to grow and benefits from regular deadheading to prolong flowering. It is also highly attractive to bees and butterflies, enhancing pollinator activity in the garden.

Form:

• Shrub - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: 40–60 cm
• Width: 30–40 cm

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring
• Flowers in Summer
• Flowers in Autumn

Flower Colour:

• Pink
• Purple
• White
• Red (varies by variety)

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots
• Bee Attracting
• Annual (grown as an annual in most climates)
• Suitable for Cut Flowers
• Low Maintenance

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic to humans and pets

Companion Plants:

• Lobelia
• Petunia
• Alyssum
• Verbena
• Salvia