Contents
Description
Plectranthus Parviflorus, commonly known as the Cockspur Flower, is a perennial plant that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers. The plant grows up to 1m tall and has a bushy habit with square stems that are covered in fine hairs. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped with toothed margins. The flowers are small, tubular, and white with purple markings on the lower lip. They are produced in dense spikes up to 30cm long in summer and autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Plectranthus |
Appearance
The leaves of Plectranthus Parviflorus are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped with toothed margins. They are 5-8cm long and 2-4cm wide. The flowers are small, tubular, and white with purple markings on the lower lip. They are produced in dense spikes up to 30cm long in summer and autumn. The plant has a bushy habit with square stems that are covered in fine hairs.
Care Guide
Plectranthus Parviflorus is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Grow the plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Provide the plant with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Plectranthus Parviflorus is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Plectranthus Parviflorus is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by the following:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use a miticide to control the infestation.
- Mealybugs: These insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. Use an insecticide to control the infestation.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and reduce watering if necessary.
Habitat
Plectranthus Parviflorus is native to South Africa and is found in the Eastern Cape Province. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and rocky outcrops. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Plectranthus Parviflorus toxic to pets?
A: No, Plectranthus Parviflorus is not toxic to pets.
Q: How often should I fertilize Plectranthus Parviflorus?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Plectranthus Parviflorus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Plectranthus Parviflorus can be grown indoors in bright, indirect light.
Q: When should I prune my Plectranthus Parviflorus?
A: Prune the plant in early spring to promote bushy growth.
Related Plants
- Plectranthus Amboinicus (Cuban Oregano)
- Plectranthus Barbatus (Indian Coleus)
- Plectranthus Scutellarioides (Coleus)
References
- “Plectranthus parviflorus.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science, n.d. Web. 5 Aug. 2021.
- “Plectranthus parviflorus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 5 Aug. 2021.
- “Cockspur Flower (Plectranthus parviflorus).” Gardenia. Gardenia, n.d. Web. 5 Aug. 2021.
