Plectranthus ecklonii — a medium houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Plectranthus ecklonii

Plectranthus Ecklonii

Updated · 57 observations
A NOTE OF INTEREST

Plectranthus ecklonii is a shrub from the mint family Lamiaceae, native to South Africa. The habitat includes forest or shaded situations near the coast.

A note from PlantMom

Large spur-flower shows strong resistance to disease and is generally not vulnerable to illnesses. Still, it can be affected by pests and diseases found in its environment. These problems are typically mild. Regarding maintenance, this plant needs a moderate amount of care. It should be pruned on a regular basis to preserve a neat appearance and support healthy growth. Applying fertilizer can also encourage blooming. Large spur-flower is well suited for people who have outdoor areas, like a garden or patio, and it does not demand extensive care experience. It may need more attention if cultivated indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Plectranthus Ecklonii.

Light

The large spur-flower grows best in full sun, although it can tolerate periods of reduced light. It originates from habitats with plentiful sunlight, so receiving abundant light encourages healthy growth. However, extremes—either too much or too little light—can impede its development.

Water

The large spur-flower grows well in subtropical climates and is resilient enough to endure short droughts, needing water only every one to two weeks. It thrives in well-drained soil and benefits from mulching to help retain moisture, particularly during the warmer months. This practice ensures the plant remains hydrated without the risk of waterlogging.

Temperature

Large spur-flower is native to habitats where temperatures generally range from 68 to 100.4°F (20 to 38 ℃). It does best in those conditions, and seasonal adjustments to mimic these temperatures should be made when needed.

Fertilizer

One fertilizer application in spring is generally enough for Large spur-flower, though several feedings can enhance growth. Apply fertilizer every month to a month and a half. Fertilization improves the leaves' appearance and function, encouraging uniform color and a healthy texture. It also promotes root development and nutrient uptake for sustained plant health.

Pruning

The large spur-flower is a fast-growing shrub known for its impressive flowers and fragrant leaves. To maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth and more blooms, it should be pruned between early and late spring. Start by removing the dead stems, then cut back up to one-third of the plant's height. This will help control its size and improve air circulation.

Pot & Repot

When repotting Large spur-flower, select a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with ample drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball is slightly lower than the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb, Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Plectranthus
Family
Lamiaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-11
Mature Height
1.52 m to 3.05 m
Mature Spread
1.22 m
Leaf Color
Green, Blue
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Lavender
Flower Size
25.40 cm
Bloom Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
Fall, Winter
Native Area
South Africa
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en South African Tulasi en Spurflower
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

How should I water my Large spur-flower?

To ensure the health of the Large spur-flower, it is recommended to use filtered water at room temperature for watering. Tap water may contain harmful particles, so filtered water is preferred. The water should be at room temperature or slightly warmer because the Large spur-flower thrives in warm environments and cold water can be a shock to its system. When watering, avoid overhead watering as it can cause problems with the foliage. Instead, gently pour the filtered room temperature water onto the soil until it is fully saturated. This method helps to moisten the roots, allowing them to spread and collect the necessary nutrients from the soil.

Why should I put fertilizer on my Large spur-flower?

The main structure of the Large spur-flower consists of its leaves. Fertilization is crucial for ensuring that these leaves not only look great but also function properly. By properly fertilizing, you can help the Large spur-flower maintain consistent color and a healthy texture in its leaves. Fertilization also has an impact below the surface, as it promotes the growth of new roots and maintains existing ones in the root system. This means that fertilization not only keeps the plant healthy in the present but also improves its ability to absorb nutrients from the soil in the future.

What kind of sunlight does the Large spur-flower require?

Large spur-flower thrives on a minimum of six hours of full sun per day, which is necessary for the health of its leaves, roots, and blooms. While most perennials also require six hours of sunlight, plants like the Orange Daylily or Giant Coreopsis can survive with as little as three hours of direct sun each day. However, these perennial flowering plants won't flourish as effectively as they would under sunnier conditions.

What temperature is best for Large spur-flower?

Plants are affected by colder temperatures because they naturally match the temperature of the air around them. When plants are in the sun, they can warm up again, but this doesn't happen in winter. The Large spur-flower typically prefers temperatures between 70~85℉(21~30℃). While it might be able to tolerate temperatures as low as 20~30℉(-6~0℃), or even 15℉(-10℃), it should not be exposed to extreme cold for too long as it can cause frost damage. To keep the plants healthy, try to maintain a temperature range of 70~85℉(21~30℃), and remember to occasionally spray them with water and provide some shade to avoid wilting.

What should I do if I give my Large spur-flower too much or too little water?

Overwatering is a more common issue than underwatering for the health of your Large spur-flower. When the plant receives too much water, its stems and leaves may wilt and turn yellow. Overwatering for a long time can also cause diseases like root rot, mold, and mildew, which can be fatal. Although underwatering is less common, it is still possible for the Large spur-flower. When underwatering occurs, the leaves become brittle and brown. It is important to notice signs of overwatering early to prevent irreversible damage. If you see early signs, reduce your watering schedule and check the soil's drainage. If the soil drains poorly, replace it with a loose, well-draining potting mix. If signs of underwatering are present, water more regularly until the signs disappear.

When should I fertilize my Large spur-flower plant?

If you decide to grow your Large spur-flower outdoors each year, you can expect new growth to emerge in early spring. This is a signal that it's the right time to start fertilizing the plant. Typically, a single application of fertilizer in the spring is enough for the spur-flower to thrive. However, if you want to maximize its growth, you can feed it multiple times during the spring and early summer. In this case, you can fertilize the Large spur-flower about once every month to a month and a half.

Can too much sunlight harm Large spur-flower? How can I keep Large spur-flower safe from the sun and heat?

In warm climates, some Perennial Flowering Plants may struggle with excessive heat and suffer from sun damage. They can wilt, dry out, or even experience growth problems if they are consistently exposed to the intense afternoon sun. However, not all plants require protection from the light afternoon sun. For those that are harmed by intense afternoon exposure, it is recommended to provide them with some shade in warmer climates. Gardeners can achieve this by planting these plants in areas that do not receive direct heat during the afternoon, such as under trees or behind bushes.

Do I need to change the temperature for Large spur-flower at different stages of growth?

To ensure successful growth of Large spur-flower, it is important to research and maintain appropriate temperatures. Some growers may consider lowering the temperature during the growing season to save on HVAC costs. However, it is crucial to understand that temperature has an impact on flowering, pest management, and overall plant quality. In the winter, some species of Large spur-flower may enter a dormant state and stop growing. As the seasons change and the temperature rises, the base temperature for growth increases and the plants can grow faster. Species naturally found in warm habitats have higher optimal temperatures compared to those that prefer cooler climates. Exposing Large spur-flower seeds to cooler temperatures can result in reduced uniformity and delays. During flowering, it may be necessary to lower the temperature, but not during other phases of growth. Cooler nighttime temperatures also require less water, so irrigation should be adjusted accordingly.

How much should I water my Large spur-flower?

If your Large spur-flower plant is in a pot, you can check if it needs water by inserting your finger into the soil. If the top two to three inches of soil are dry, then it's time to water it. If you grow the Large spur-flower outdoors in the ground, you can use a similar method. Once the first few inches of soil have dried out, it's time to water it. Typically, watering once a week during spring and early fall is sufficient. However, in extremely hot weather, you may need to water it twice or more per week. It's worth noting that mature and well-established Large spur-flower plants can tolerate drought conditions well.

When is it best to not add fertilizer to my Large spur-flower?

During the late fall and winter, your Large spur-flower will go into a dormant phase and stop growing. It's important not to fertilize it during this time. In the spring and summer, if you choose to fertilize multiple times, start reducing the amount as summer approaches because the growth rate will slow down. It's never a good idea to fertilize your Large spur-flower when the weather is unusually hot or the soil is very dry. Fertilizing in these conditions can stress the plant and cause it to die early.

Should I keep Large spur-flower out of the sun to protect it?

Certain perennial plants require ample sunlight to reach their maximum bloom. However, in warmer climates, some of these plants actually benefit from less sun. For instance, individuals residing in hotter regions might find it beneficial to shade their flowering perennials during the intense afternoon sun, especially during summer months. Although many perennial flowering plants prefer partial shade in the hottest climates, there are exceptions. Take the Giant Coreopsis, for example, as it is not bothered by excessive sun exposure. These plants can flourish even when placed in the full sun during scorching weather.

How do I keep Large spur-flower warm during cold seasons?

To help the plant withstand colder temperatures as they decrease, stop using fertilizer, which will prevent new growth and allow the existing growth to become hardier. To keep the plant warm, you can construct structures like cages or trellises around the Large spur-flower. Another option is to use heat mats, which can gently warm the soil and maintain an ideal temperature range for the plant.

PLATES
Plectranthus ecklonii leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Plectranthus ecklonii leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Plectranthus ecklonii flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Plectranthus ecklonii flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Plectranthus ecklonii bark
PLATE 05 · bark
Plectranthus ecklonii bark
PLATE 06 · bark
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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