Overview
Plectranthus ciliatus is a clump forming, bushy bedding in the genus Plectranthus, part of the Lamiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Plectranthus ciliatus grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, bedding, conservatory and greenhouse and ground cover.
About
Plectranthus ciliatus, called Indian borage, speckled spur flower, blue spur flower, and candlestick plant, is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to South Africa and Eswatini, and introduced to Victoria in Australia and the North and South Islands of New Zealand.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Plectranthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Plectranthus ciliatus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bedding, Conservatory Greenhouse, Herbaceous Perennial, Houseplants
- Habit
- Clump forming, Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Bedding, Conservatory and greenhouse, Ground cover
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Plectranthus ciliatus
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings in summer, Seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Plectranthus ciliatus?
Plectranthus ciliatus prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Plectranthus ciliatus need?
Plectranthus ciliatus grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Plectranthus ciliatus hardy in the UK?
Plectranthus ciliatus has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Plectranthus ciliatus?
Softwood cuttings in summer, Seed.
More in the Plectranthus genus
- Plectranthus ciliatus 'Drège'Indian borage 'Drège'
- Plectranthus ciliatus 'Nico'
- Plectranthus ciliatus 'Sasha' (v)
- Plectranthus eckloniiEcklon's spurflower
- Plectranthus fruticosus 'Behr's Pride'
- Plectranthus 'Franklin's Limelight'Swedish ivy 'Franklin's Limelight'
- Plectranthus 'Franklin's Olive'
- Plectranthus 'Purple Spires'