Plectranthus ecklonii, also known as Tall Spurflower or Ecklon Spurflower, is a striking garden plant. Gardeners favor it for its appealing foliage, prolific autumn blooms, and relatively straightforward care. Its ability to thrive in partial shade also adds to its versatility.
Understanding Plectranthus Ecklonii
Plectranthus ecklonii is an herbaceous perennial shrub in the mint family, Lamiaceae. Native to South Africa’s moist, subtropical coastal forests, this fast-growing plant can reach 9.8 feet (3 meters) tall and 4 feet (1.2 meters) wide, forming a bushy, erect habit.
Its attractive, large, ovate to elliptical leaves are typically dark green, sometimes with purplish veins. Measuring 2.9 to 7.5 inches (7.4 to 19 cm) long and 1.3 to 4.5 inches (3.5 to 11.5 cm) wide, they complement the plant’s most notable feature: abundant, showy, two-lipped, tubular flowers. These flowers appear in autumn (March to May, peaking in April) on long, spiky terminal panicles up to 14.5 inches (37 cm) long, in shades of blue-purple, pink, or white.
Plectranthus Ecklonii Care Guide
Light Requirements
Plectranthus ecklonii thrives in partial to light shade, often flourishing under trees or in dappled sunlight. While some varieties tolerate more sun, protection from intense afternoon sun prevents foliage scorching. Adequate light promotes vigorous growth and abundant flower production.
Watering Needs
This plant requires moderate, consistent moisture, especially in summer. Though it tolerates short droughts by storing moisture in its roots and stems, regular watering every one to two weeks is best. Well-drained soil is important to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Preferences
Plectranthus ecklonii thrives in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.1 to 7.5) is ideal. Incorporating compost or other organic material enhances soil fertility and drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
Plectranthus ecklonii is sensitive to frost, performing best in mild winter climates (USDA hardiness zones 8a to 10b). In colder regions, grow it in containers to move indoors before frost, or treat it as an annual. Average to high humidity is favorable for its growth.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring through early fall), Plectranthus ecklonii benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 mix, monthly or bi-weekly at half strength, to support robust growth and vibrant blooms. Reduce or cease fertilization in winter as growth slows.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning maintains a desirable shape, encouraging bushier growth and more prolific flowering. Prune in early to late spring, or after flowering, by cutting back up to one-third of its height. Removing older flower heads also promotes continued blooming.
Propagating Plectranthus Ecklonii
Propagating Plectranthus ecklonii is achievable using stem cuttings, a common and effective method. Take cuttings during spring or summer from healthy stems, 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) long, ensuring each has at least two to five leaf nodes.
Remove leaves from the lower half of the cutting, leaving only the topmost intact. This minimizes water loss as roots develop. Cuttings can root in water or a well-draining medium like sand or potting mix. If rooting in water, change it every few days. Once roots are an inch or two long (typically within two to three weeks), plant them in soil.
Common Issues and Solutions
While generally low-maintenance, Plectranthus ecklonii can face a few issues. Frost sensitivity is a primary concern; though it can recover from minor damage, prolonged freezing temperatures are harmful. If frost damage occurs, prune affected parts in late winter for regeneration.
Leggy growth, characterized by long, sparse stems, often results from inadequate light or insufficient pruning. Address this by ensuring proper light exposure and implementing routine pruning to encourage bushier development. A lack of blooms may also stem from insufficient light or a need for fertilization; adjusting these practices can stimulate flowering. Finally, overwatering can cause root rot. To prevent this, ensure well-draining soil and allow the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.