Strobilanthes is a genus of about 350 species of flowering plants in the family of Acanthaceae. Most of the members of the genus is native to tropical Asia and Madagascar, but with a few species extending north into temperate regions of Asia. Name comes from Greek, strolios, meaning cone and anthos, meaning flower.

Strobilanthes anisophyllus is a small, dense, evergreen shrub with blacky stems, grows up to 1.2 meters tall and 1 meter wide. Naturally found at Assam in India. Leaves are willow like, lanceolate up to 8 cm long, opposite, glossy purple-black, entire margins. Brunetthy cultivar has more blackish and smaller leaves. Flowers in loose terminal inflorescence, star from winter through to summer long. Spikes of funnel to bell shaped, two-lipped, 2 cm long, white flowers turning lavender with age.

Goldfussia; needs rich, light, well-drained soil in a sunny location. For best purple foliage colour, it should be grown in full sun. Plant suited to a warm and humid climate; it is frost and drought sensitive and should be protected from wind. After flowering, to promote bushy growth and keep the plant tidy, it should be trimmed. Also, should be protected from snails and slugs. Goldfussia is easy to propagate from cuttings. May cause skin allergies.

Strobilanthes anisophyllus ‘Brunetthy’ is a particularly striking variety, with dark purple, almost black lance shaped foliage and delicate tubular lilac blooms. Plant may be used as an excellent contrast plant in borders and is also a good source of winter colour with its flowers as it does in those months.

Use in Landscape: Great as a low growing hedge or plant next to green plants for nice contrast. Useful as a specimen or in groups mixed with shrubbery for the contrast of its foliage. In cold places where there is no change to survive outside, be used as a lovely pot plant.