The Long-Blooming Tropical Plant That Will Keep Your Garden Colorful Through Fall

It always feels a bit sad when the days begin to get shorter and the flowers in the garden start to fade. But, thankfully, there are some beautiful fall-blooming perennial plants, allowing you to enjoy lively color long past summer. One lesser-known option is the hot water plant (Achimenes). With flowers found in hues of orange, red, purple, and gold, this long-blooming plant will provide blossoms through the summer and fall months. 

The hot water plant is an herbaceous perennial with textured leaves in shades of dark green. The flowers have a classical shape, with round, showy petals that will keep you cheerful as fall takes hold. Its trailing nature makes it a perfect plant for hanging baskets, but it is equally as happy in borders and containers. As it is a tropical plant, you may wish to keep it in a greenhouse or in your home as a flowering houseplant. Some types of hot water plant can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 and 8, while others are only suitable for zones 10 and 11 unless grown as an annual. Always check the species and cultivar when purchasing to ensure that it is suitable for your climate.

When adding hot water plants to your garden, ensure that you place them in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. These flowers do not do well in temperatures under 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so bear that in mind when picking a location for them. They should be placed in indirect sunlight in an area with consistent moisture. 

Hot water plants typically don't require water until they begin to sprout in the spring. However, when they begin to grow actively, they will need to be watered and fed regularly. Try to check the moisture levels of the soil every day and water when necessary. Feed them a balanced liquid fertilizer once a week during the summer months to ensure they are getting enough nutrients to flower well into fall. Pruning is not required, but you may want to cut back the stems to maintain the shape. When winter arrives, you will need to protect these perennials from frost as they enter dormancy, or bring them indoors. With the right care and climate, these beautiful flowers can come back every year to brighten up your fall.