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BeddingConservatory Greenhouse

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 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
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
H2
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to the UK
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 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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