Plectranthus ambiguus
pincushion spurflower
An evergreen perennial with with aromatic toothed and veined hairy green foliage and upright spikes of small, tubular, two-lipped pink-purple flowers appearing in early autumn. Good for ground cover in shady areas
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Pink Purple | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- 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
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Southern Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Under glass grow in eat-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
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Bedding
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Ground cover
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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