Plectranthus ‘Velvet Elvis’ is a captivating ornamental plant known for its distinctive appearance and simple care. It features lush, silvery-green, velvety leaves and vibrant purple to lavender tubular flowers on tall spikes, making it a popular choice for adding texture and color to gardens or indoor spaces.
Caring for Plectranthus ‘Velvet Elvis’
Light
Plectranthus ‘Velvet Elvis’ thrives in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving at least four to six hours of sunlight daily to promote robust growth and abundant flowering. When grown indoors, placing the plant near a bright window with indirect light is beneficial, as direct, intense sunlight can sometimes bleach the foliage. Shorter daylight periods, specifically less than 12 hours, can encourage the plant to initiate flowering.
Watering
Consistent moisture is preferred for ‘Velvet Elvis’, but adequate soil drainage is crucial to prevent root issues. Water regularly, allowing the top one to two inches of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This avoids waterlogging. Once established, ‘Velvet Elvis’ can withstand short periods of drought due to its ability to store water within its stems.
Soil Requirements
This plant performs best in well-draining, moderately fertile soil with organic matter. An ideal soil pH ranges from slightly acidic to neutral. For containers, use a high-quality potting mix that ensures good drainage, or amend garden soil with perlite or compost.
Temperature and Humidity
Plectranthus ‘Velvet Elvis’ prefers warmer conditions. It is hardy in USDA Zones 9 to 11 as a perennial, but often grown as an annual in cooler climates. The plant appreciates moderate to high humidity, though it tolerates average household humidity well. Avoid placing it near dry indoor heat sources.
Fertilizing
To support healthy growth and vibrant blooms, fertilize ‘Velvet Elvis’ with a balanced, slow-release formula in spring. Alternatively, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks during the spring and summer growing seasons. Yellowing leaves, especially between veins, can indicate a nutrient deficiency, while excess fertilizer may cause root burn or foliage bleaching. During flowering periods, withhold fertilizer.
Pruning and Shaping
Pruning ‘Velvet Elvis’ encourages a bushier, more compact growth habit and maintains its shape. Removing spent flowers improves appearance and stimulates more blooms. Trimming leggy or overgrown stems keeps the plant tidy. The best time for pruning is during the active growing season (spring through early fall) for quicker recovery.
Make clean cuts just above a leaf node to encourage new shoots. Do not remove more than one-third of the plant’s total mass at once to prevent stress. Regularly pinching new shoot tips also promotes fuller growth.
Propagating ‘Velvet Elvis’
Plectranthus ‘Velvet Elvis’ is easy to propagate, primarily through stem cuttings. Take healthy stem cuttings, four to six inches long, ideally from non-flowering sections. Remove lower leaves, leaving two to four at the top.
Place cuttings in water, changing it every two weeks, or insert directly into moist, well-drained potting mix. While rooting hormone can be used, it often roots readily without it. Roots typically form within a few weeks; once substantial, pot new plants individually.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Leggy growth in Plectranthus ‘Velvet Elvis’ often indicates that the plant is not receiving enough light. Relocating it to a brighter spot with more direct sunlight, combined with regular pruning, can help it develop a denser, more compact form. Yellowing leaves are a common issue that can stem from either overwatering or underwatering, both of which can stress the plant and impair nutrient uptake. Ensuring the plant is in well-draining soil and adhering to proper watering practices where the top soil layer dries out between waterings helps prevent these problems.
Although Plectranthus ‘Velvet Elvis’ is generally resistant to pests, occasional infestations of spider mites or mealybugs can occur. Spider mites, which thrive in dry conditions, can be managed by regularly blasting affected plants with water, focusing on the undersides of leaves, and increasing ambient humidity. For mealybugs, which appear as white, cottony masses, direct application of rubbing alcohol with a cotton swab can be effective, as can sprays made from diluted alcohol or insecticidal soap. Neem oil is another option for controlling these pests.