Plectranthus Laxiflorus

Description

Plectranthus Laxiflorus, also known as Loose-flowered Plectranthus, is a popular species of Plectranthus that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Native to South Africa, it is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 1 meter tall and 1.5 meters wide. It is well-known for its aromatic, ovate leaves that are green on top and purple underneath. Its leaves can grow up to 10 cm long and 8 cm wide, and its flowers bloom in loose spikes that are white, lavender, or pink in color.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Plectranthus Laxiflorus is a bushy plant that has a sprawling growth habit. Its leaves are ovate in shape and are slightly toothed at the edges. The leaves are green on top and purple underneath, and they have a slightly hairy texture. Its flowers bloom in loose spikes that can reach up to 8 cm long. The flowers are small and tubular in shape, and they can be white, lavender, or pink in color. The plant blooms from late summer to early autumn.

Care Guide

Plectranthus Laxiflorus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for your Plectranthus Laxiflorus:

• Water: Water your plant regularly, but do not let the soil become waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Plant your Plectranthus Laxiflorus in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Plectranthus Laxiflorus prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight.
• Hardiness Zones: Plectranthus Laxiflorus is hardy in USDA Zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Plectranthus Laxiflorus is generally a pest-free plant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, make sure to keep your plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilizing. Plectranthus Laxiflorus can also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is kept too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure to plant your Plectranthus Laxiflorus in well-draining soil.

Habitat

Plectranthus Laxiflorus is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas and on hillsides. It prefers well-draining soil and partial to full shade.

Questions and Answers

Q: Is Plectranthus Laxiflorus toxic to pets?

A: Plectranthus Laxiflorus is non-toxic to pets.

Q: Can Plectranthus Laxiflorus be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Plectranthus Laxiflorus can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright, indirect light.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Plectranthus Laxiflorus?

A: Fertilize your Plectranthus Laxiflorus once a month during the growing season.

Q: Will Plectranthus Laxiflorus grow in full sun?

A: Plectranthus Laxiflorus prefers partial to full shade and should not be placed in direct sunlight.

Related Plants

• Plectranthus Amboinicus
• Plectranthus Argentatus
• Plectranthus Barbatus
• Plectranthus Ciliatus
• Plectranthus Coleoides

References

• “Plectranthus Laxiflorus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k580. Accessed 6 August 2021.
• “Plectranthus Laxiflorus.” Plants Rescue, plantsrescue.com/plectranthus-laxiflorus.html. Accessed 6 August 2021.
• “Plectranthus Laxiflorus.” PlantZAfrica, pza.sanbi.org/plectranthus-laxiflorus/. Accessed 6 August 2021.