This species is native to Mexico and Central America, as far as Panama. It is cultivated as an ornamental in many parts of the world with a Mediterranean climate: California, Florida, northern Australia, Spain, Madeira, etc.
In the Canary Islands it has been introduced for centuries, and in some places in the midlands, close to human habitats, feral specimens can still be found, from its ancient cultivation as a medicinal plant, much appreciated among the peasants for its numerous curative virtues.
It is a species appreciated in gardening both for its leafy foliage and for its spectacular and colourful flowering, as well as not needing much care, as it adapts well to almost all types of situations, although it prefers well nourished and drained soils, as well as sunny exposure.
It grows fairly quickly and can be grown both in pots and in gardens, either as a single specimen or in groups. It is noted for its winter flowering, when almost all other plants are withered, and its flowers attract large numbers of bees and butterflies.
Numerous medicinal properties are attributed to this species. The infusion of its leaves and flowers is used to relieve headaches and stomach aches, cure flu and lower blood pressure. It is also used as an aromatic perfume to treat pharyngitis.
In Mexico they prepare a tea by mixing it with fennel and cinnamon, which they use to soothe coughs, chest pains and to cure what they call air sickness.
Its infusion is also used as an antiseptic, emmenagogue, analgesic, nervine and abortifacient.
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