Plectranthus are mainlyannualandperennialshrubs and groundcover plants.
These plants are versatile; most grow well in-ground, in containers, and as houseplants.
As Plectranthus is a fast-growing, low-maintenance species, somespecies are invasive, likeP.
Plectranthus amboinicusideation90 / Getty Images
They do best in locations that providepartial shade, although some species can grow in full sun.
Plectranthus are not frost-tolerant, but the perennial species will come back in the spring in warm winter locations.
They are easily propagated and only require pruning for cosmetic reasons.
Warning
SomePlectranthusspecies are considered invasive.
barbatusare two invasive species in South Africa.
Light
The exact amount of light needed to grow Plectranthus depends on the species.
Standard potting soil mixed with perlite or sand should provide adequate drainage.
Water
Plectranthus require regular watering to thrive, on average about 1 inch of water per week.
Only water once the top inch or two of soil has dried out.
Be careful not to overwater.
The soil should stay moist but not wet.
It is important to note that water needs may vary from species to species.
Plectranthus does not tolerate temperature extremes well.
In sweltering climates, Plectranthus may struggle and require extra care (watering and shade) to survive.
Plectranthus species prefer average to above average humidity from 50 percent up to 80 percent relative humidity.
Fertilizer
Plectranthus plants appreciate monthlyfertilizationduring their active growing period, from the spring to the fall.
A standard 10-20-10 plant fertilizer should be sufficient for most varieties.
For the amount to use, follow product label instructions.
Pruning
Species in thePlectranthusgenus can beprunedregularly to help them maintain an attractive shape.
Shrubby varieties look best when cut back and shaped into more dense bushes.
Groundcover varieties grow quickly and may be pruned regularly to prevent overgrowing.
Propagating Plectranthus
Plectranthus are easily propagated through division and cuttings.
The best time to propagate is during the spring or early summer.
For example, the blue spur flower is an aggressive spreader, sending out offshoots under the soil.
Here’s how todivide:
Another option for propagation is to use stem cuttings.
The cuttings root easily in soil and can be grown without much hassle.
You’ll need seed starting soil, seed starting trays, or small cups.
Plant the seeds shallowly, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep.
Keep the soil moist and warm (room temperature from 70 to 75 F).
Provide bright light for at least 8 to 16 hours.
The plants need at least 8 hours of dark to grow.
Seedlings should emerge in 7 to 14 days.
Repot in about 6 to 8 weeks after the seedling emerges.
Potting and Repotting Plectranthus
Plectranthus needs to drain adequately after watering.
Select any container as long as it has ample drainage holes.
If transplanting as a seedling, plant the seedling in a 4 to 6-inch pot.
Center the transplant in the pot and fill fresh soil around it.
Water thoroughly until water drains out of the base.
Before a Plectranthus experiences dieback outdoors, snip off a few succulent, young stems with several leaves.
Root the cuttings in filtered water on a windowsill.
Remove the leaves that are below the waterline.
As the waterline recedes, replenish the water.
Poorly drained soils or containers with inadequate drainage are usually the main reason for root and stem rot.
you could try a fungicide treatment and follow the package instructions to treat these fungal diseases.
Also, remove damaged leaves to prevent spores from spreading.
Pruning and deadheading faded flower spikes will likely encourage more blooms.
Depending on the species, the flowers can be purple, pink, white, orblue.
It’s important to recognize signs that your plant is having some issues.
If most of the plant’s roots have blackened, discard the plant.
Using a sharp, sterile knife cut away any blackened, rotting roots and apply a fungicide.
Yellowing leaves can also occur if the plant gets too much sun.
Sunburn can cause leaves to curl, turn brown, and dry up.
Move the plant to a shadier spot to prevent leaves from getting scorched.
Wilting Leaves
If your plant is wilting, try giving more water.
If your plant does not recover when you water it, it’s likely root rot.
If necessary, adjust any of those factors accordingly.
Most Plectranthus live about five years on average.
Plectranthus’Mona Lavender' is an excellent alternative to common lavender if you have pets.
Most plectranthus can grow indoors with ample sunlight, such as a southern exposure.
Invasive Species Compendium: Plectranthus amboinicus(Indian borage).
Plectranthus Pleases Foliage Lovers.
University of Florida IFAS.
Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)-Downy Mildew.
Pacific Northwest Pest Management Handbooks.
