About

This tender, evergreen perennial to 50cm tall, with wrinkled, toothed, finely hairy leaves. In early autumn, spikes of tubular, pale purple flowers are produced.

About the genus

Plectranthus can be annuals, evergreen perennials or shrubs, with opposite, ovate or heart-shaped, sometimes fleshy leaves, and 2-lipped, tubular flowers borne in whorls forming spikes or panicles

Growing conditions

SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2

Plant details

Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants

Care notes

CultivationUnder glass grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added organic matter in filtered light with shade from hot sun. Water freely in growth and apply a balanced liquid feed monthly
PruningCut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free