Overview
Plectranthus ecklonii is a clump forming, bushy bedding in the genus Plectranthus, part of the Lamiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Plectranthus ecklonii 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 ecklonii, commonly known as Ecklon's spurflower or large spurflower, is a clump-forming, bushy evergreen perennial within the genus Plectranthus. This genus includes a variety of plants with opposite, often fleshy, ovate or heart-shaped leaves and tubular, two-lipped flowers arranged in whorls forming spikes or panicles. Plectranthus ecklonii thrives in full sun or partial shade, favouring sheltered, south-, east-, or west-facing aspects with fertile, moist but well-drained loam or sandy soils of varying pH. It is suitable for patios, containers, bedding, conservatories, greenhouses, and ground cover, with interest in spring and summer.
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 ecklonii 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 ecklonii
- 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 ecklonii?
Plectranthus ecklonii prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Plectranthus ecklonii need?
Plectranthus ecklonii 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 ecklonii hardy in the UK?
Plectranthus ecklonii 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 ecklonii?
Softwood cuttings in summer, Seed.
More in the Plectranthus genus
- Plectranthus ciliatusIndian borage
- Plectranthus ciliatus 'Drège'Indian borage 'Drège'
- Plectranthus ciliatus 'Nico'
- Plectranthus ciliatus 'Sasha' (v)
- Plectranthus fruticosus 'Behr's Pride'
- Plectranthus 'Franklin's Limelight'Swedish ivy 'Franklin's Limelight'
- Plectranthus 'Franklin's Olive'
- Plectranthus 'Purple Spires'