Plectranthus nitidus – Silver Plectranthus

Plectranthus nitidus - silver Plectranthus
Plectranthus nitidus - silver Plectranthus

This attractive plant is a low growing mounding perennial that can grow to a low shrub if left unpruned. With its silvery coloured and felty textured leaves, it makes a lovely contrast plant in the garden and landscape, and will do well in full shade to more sunny positions. The silver leaves have a purple underside, adding to the attractiveness. It has spikes of small blue to lilac flowers in late summer to autumn. If it gets too leggy it responds well to pruning.

Plectranthus nitidus is a threatened species in its natural habitat in northern NSW and southern Queensland, but the ease of propagation and good garden habit will hopefully assure its future.

Family : Lamiaceae

Cultivar Name:

Plant Type : Small shrub, Clumping perennial

Width : 1

Flowering Time : Summer, Autumn

Soil Type : Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam, Potting mix, Poor soil

Climate Zone : Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Cool temperate, Mediterranean

Growth Habit : Evergreen, Spreading, Mound-shaped

Soil Moisture : Dry, Well-drained, Moist moderate drainage

Special Uses : Pipe and drain friendly, Fast growing, Playground friendly

Scientific Name: Plectranthus nitidus

Common Name : Silver Plectranthus

Height : 1.5

Flower Color : White, Blue

pH Level : Acid, Neutral

Plant Environment : Low maintenance garden, Courtyard, Poolside, Container growing, Cottage garden, Coastal garden

Light : Light shade, Half shade, Heavy shade

Lifespan : Perennial

Frost Tolerance : Tolerates light frost

Attracts Wildlife : Butterflies, Other insects