About
Plectranthus are annuals, evergreen perennials or shrubs with opposite, ovate or heart-shaped, sometimes fleshy, aromatic leaves and two-lipped, tubular flowers borne in whorls forming spikes or panicles. A rewarding genus for a sheltered, sunny border or heated greenhouse.
About the genus
Plectranthus are annuals, evergreen perennials or shrubs with opposite, ovate or heart-shaped, sometimes fleshy leaves and two-lipped, tubular flowers in whorls forming spikes or panicles. Widely grown as houseplants, conservatory plants and in frost-free borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Rock garden
Native toFar East
Care notes
CultivationGrow in deep, light, fertile, loamy, reliably moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. May need support; resents disturbance
PruningCut back to the base in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed in pots or in situ in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free