Contents
Description
Plectranthus Argentatus is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. This plant is native to South Africa and is commonly known as silver spurflower or silver plectranthus. The leaves of this plant are covered in fine, silver hairs, giving it a unique and striking appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Plectranthus |
Appearance
Plectranthus Argentatus can grow up to 60 cm in height and 90 cm in width. The leaves of this plant are large, triangular, and toothed, with a velvety texture due to the fine silver hairs covering their surface. The flowers of this plant are small, lavender in color, and bloom in late summer to early fall. The silvery leaves of this plant make it an excellent choice for adding contrast and texture to any garden.
Care Guide
Water: Plectranthus Argentatus prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Fertilization: Fertilize Plectranthus Argentatus every two to three weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing in the fall and winter.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight: Plectranthus Argentatus prefers partial shade to full shade. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves of this plant.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Plectranthus Argentatus is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered, and avoid over-fertilizing. Signs of infestation include small webs, yellowing leaves, and sticky residue on the leaves. Treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Plectranthus Argentatus is native to South Africa and grows in rocky, well-draining soil in its natural habitat. It prefers partial shade and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Plectranthus Argentatus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors in a bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should I prune Plectranthus Argentatus?
A: Prune the plant to remove dead or damaged leaves as needed. You can also prune the plant to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Is Plectranthus Argentatus toxic to pets?
A: This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Q: How can I propagate Plectranthus Argentatus?
A: This plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or by dividing the root ball in the spring.
Related Plants
- Plectranthus Scutellarioides
- Plectranthus Mona Lavender
- Plectranthus Amboinicus
- Plectranthus Forsteri
References
- “Plectranthus argentatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b672.
- “Plectranthus argentatus.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed August 20, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/plectranthus-argentatus.
- “Silver spurflower.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/40656/i-Plectranthus-argentatus-i/Details.
