Contents
Description
Plectranthus Barbatus, also known as Coleus Forskohlii, is a perennial herb native to India, Nepal, and Thailand. It belongs to the mint family and has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. The plant has a strong, earthy scent and produces small, lavender flowers in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Plectranthus |
Appearance
Plectranthus Barbatus grows up to 60 cm in height and has a bushy, upright habit. Its leaves are green, soft, and slightly hairy, and have a lanceolate shape. The plant’s roots are shallow and not invasive, making it an excellent choice for container gardening. Plectranthus Barbatus is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and indoor spaces due to its attractive foliage.
Care Guide
Water
Plectranthus Barbatus prefers consistently moist soil, but it should not be overwatered. Water the plant regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Fertilization
Fertilize Plectranthus Barbatus every two to four weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Soil
Plectranthus Barbatus thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Use a good quality potting mix if growing the plant in a container.
Sunlight
Plectranthus Barbatus prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct sunlight. It does best in a location with partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Plectranthus Barbatus is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Plectranthus Barbatus is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it may occasionally be attacked by spider mites, mealybugs, or whiteflies. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Plectranthus Barbatus is native to India, Nepal, and Thailand, where it grows in subtropical and tropical regions. It thrives in well-draining soil and prefers a warm, humid climate.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Plectranthus Barbatus safe for pets?
A: No, Plectranthus Barbatus is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Can Plectranthus Barbatus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Plectranthus Barbatus can be grown indoors in a well-lit location with a consistent temperature and humidity level.
Q: How often should Plectranthus Barbatus be pruned?
A: Plectranthus Barbatus can be pruned as needed to control its size and shape. It is best to prune in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Plectranthus Barbatus be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Plectranthus Barbatus can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in the spring in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they germinate.
Related Plants
- Plectranthus Scutellarioides
- Plectranthus Amboinicus
- Plectranthus Australis
- Plectranthus Ciliatus
References
- “Plectranthus barbatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b583.
- “Coleus forskohlii.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/syllabi/308/Coleus_forskohlii.pdf.
- “Plectranthus barbatus.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/42317/Plectranthus-barbatus/Details.
