Perennial plant, herbaceous and vertical growth, with branched stems. The maximum height of the plant, for the tall varieties, reaches ninety centimeters. But there are also medium and dwarf varieties. Its maximum width reaches sixty centimeters. Its vivid green leaves are heart-shaped, with strong ribs, toothed and opposite arranged on the stem. Its small, tubular flowers grow in extreme inflorescences of stamens. The flowering period of the plant lasts throughout the summer and autumn and, in the warmer regions of our country, reaches the beginning of winter.
The characteristic color of its flowers is red, but varieties with yellow, orange, white, purple or pink flowers have also been developed. It grows in fertile, well-drained soils and belongs to the pre-eminent plants that require regular watering to remain healthy and give rich flowering. It grows ideally in semi-shady places but can not withstand the low temperatures of winter, so in areas with cold winters sunny planting locations are preferred.
