Twinspur
Diascia Barberae
Diascia barberae, commonly known as Twinspur, is a charming perennial native to South Africa. With its delicate flowers and bushy growth, it adds vibrant color to gardens and containers, making it a favorite among gardeners.
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Diascia barberae prefers evenly moist soil, so water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
During the growing season (spring and summer), water every 1-2 weeks, allowing excess water to drain out. In fall and winter, reduce watering to every 2-3 weeks. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and browning leaf edges.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch. It can tolerate light shade but may produce fewer flowers in lower light conditions.
Soil
Diascia barberae prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well to ensure good drainage and aeration. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain moisture, as this can lead to root rot.
Humidity
This plant enjoys moderate humidity levels, ideally around 40-60%.
To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly or place a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles near the plant. Signs of low humidity stress include browning leaf tips and wilting.
Temperature
Diascia barberae thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
It can tolerate brief periods of cooler temperatures but should be protected from frost. In extreme heat, provide some shade to prevent stress.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
In fall and winter, reduce feeding to once every 8 weeks. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves, poor growth, and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Prune back spent flowers and any dead or damaged stems throughout the growing season to encourage new growth and flowering.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. In early spring, cut back the plant to about 6 inches to promote bushy growth.
Repotting
Repot Diascia barberae every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter, and gently loosen the roots before placing it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through stem cuttings or seeds.
For stem cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy stems in spring or early summer, remove lower leaves, and place them in a moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop, which usually takes 2-4 weeks. For seeds, sow them in early spring in a seed-starting mix, covering lightly, and keep moist until germination occurs.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check the soil moisture and reduce watering frequency if necessary. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Wilting
Why it happens
Under-watering or extreme heat.
How to fix it
Water the plant thoroughly and ensure it is not exposed to excessive heat without shade.
Root rot
Why it happens
Poor drainage or over-watering.
How to fix it
Ensure the pot has drainage holes, reduce watering frequency, and consider repotting into fresh, well-draining soil.
Pest infestations
Why it happens
Aphids or spider mites may attack the plant.
How to fix it
Inspect the plant regularly, and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Reduced flowering
Why it happens
Insufficient light or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and fertilize regularly to promote blooming.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune back any dead stems and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to encourage new growth. Monitor for pests as new growth emerges.
Summer
During summer, ensure the plant receives adequate water and consider providing some afternoon shade in extremely hot weather. Regular deadheading will promote continuous blooming.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering frequency as the plant enters dormancy. Continue to deadhead spent flowers and prepare for cooler temperatures.
Winter
In winter, protect the plant from frost and reduce watering to every 2-3 weeks. If indoors, place it in a bright location away from drafts.
Toxicity & Safety
Diascia barberae is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Always monitor pets and children around plants.
Good to know
How often should I water my Diascia barberae?
Water your Diascia barberae when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks during the growing season and every 2-3 weeks in fall and winter.
What light conditions are best for Twinspur?
Diascia barberae thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial.
Can I propagate Diascia barberae from cuttings?
Yes, you can propagate Diascia barberae from stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Place cuttings in moist potting mix and keep them warm and humid until roots develop.
What should I do if my Diascia barberae has yellow leaves?
Yellow leaves may indicate over-watering or nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and reduce watering if necessary, and consider fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer.
Is Diascia barberae toxic to pets?
No, Diascia barberae is considered non-toxic to pets and children, but ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
When is the best time to prune my Twinspur?
Prune Diascia barberae throughout the growing season to remove spent flowers and dead stems, and perform a more significant cut back in early spring to promote bushy growth.
What soil type is best for Diascia barberae?
Diascia barberae prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well for this plant.
Grows well with
Related care guides
Explore remedies
Track this plant in your garden.
Set care reminders, log growth, and join a community of plant lovers.