Light. Mussaendas do best in full sun with some afternoon shade.
Water. They are not very drought tolerant. Water often while it settles in, then keep the soil evenly moist and water during dry spells.
Soil and feeding. Plant in well-drained, fertile soil. Working organic matter such as Black Kow into the planting bed helps the soil hold water.
Size. Grows to about 10 ft. Large mussaendas have an open habit and need pruning or a trellis to stay in bounds.
Pruning. Shape it to keep it compact. After a cold snap, wait until March to cut out dead wood; plants usually recover by late spring.
Good to know. Mussaendas are cold tender. Growth slows below 60°F, and below 40°F leaves and flowers are damaged and drop.
Sources: UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County: Mussaenda – showy flowers from the coffee family · NParks Flora & Fauna Web: Mussaenda 'Calcutta'
