Genus of about 420 species of evergreen perennials, shrubs and subshrubs from tropical and subtropical regions worldwide and from temperate North America. The opposite, usually simple leaves are ovate to elliptic and often boldly veined. Upright, shrubby plants with feather-like, long-lasting flowers in yellow, orange (J. pauciflora), white or pink (J. obtusior). Use as a potted plant (flowers year-'round with proper care) or as an annual in the landscape. Jacobinia can reach 4 ft or more, but old plants are unattractive. Cut plants back after flowering - during winter keep the pot in a well-lit, fairly warm spot. Pinch twice. Growth regulator recommended two weeks after each pinch to maintain compactness.