About
This trailing or spreading evergreen perennial with freely branching stems and soft, fleshy, aromatic dark green leaves that are slightly furry and purple tinted beneath. Tiny bluish-white, tubular flowers are produced in summer and at intervals, year round.
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
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Houseplants
HabitTrailing
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesHanging basket, Houseplants, Patio and container plants
Native toEastern S Africa
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light, with shade from hot sun; during the growing season water regularly to keep the compost moist but not soggy, and apply a general liquid or houseplant fertiliser mothly. Keep just moist in winter
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division in mid or late spring or propagate by stem-tip softwood cuttings at any time
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free