Groundcovers
Plectranthus, Genus, ciliatus, Species,
- Genus & species
Spurflower
Overview
Plectranthus ciliatus is an evergreen, mat-forming perennial that grows 12–24 inches (30–60 cm) tall and spreads 24–36 inches (60–90 cm) by rooting stems. Stems are square, hairy, and purple-tinged. Leaves are opposite, ovate, 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) long, with toothed margins, soft hairs on the upper surface, and a purple underside. Flowers are tubular and two-lipped, 0.4–0.6 inch (10–15 mm) long, white to pale mauve with purple spots, and borne in spikes 4–8 inches (10–20 cm) long. Growth is fast in warm, moist conditions, at 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) of spread per year. Plants are damaged by frost at 32°F (0°C) and scorch in hot afternoon sun, and stems collapse in dry soil.
Native Range
Native to southeastern Africa, including the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa, growing in shaded forest understory and along stream banks.Suggested Uses
Used as a groundcover beneath trees and shrubs, and along shaded path edges, spaced 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) apart. Grown in hanging baskets and containers.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 2'
Width/Spread2' - 3'
Bloom Information
Blooms from late summer to autumn (March–May in the southern hemisphere, August–October in the northern hemisphere), with flower spikes lasting 3–4 weeks. Flowers are visited by bees. Plants growing in deep shade flower less than those in bright light.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White to pale mauve with purple spotsFoliage Description
Green above, purple beneathGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-4 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grows in part shade to full shade (2–4 hours of direct morning sun) and moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5–7.0. Hardy in USDA zones 9–11; stems die back at 32°F (0°C) and roots survive light frost under mulch. Plants receive 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week and the soil is not allowed to dry. Stem cuttings root in water or moist mix within 2–3 weeks. Slugs and snails feed on new growth in wet seasons.Pruning
Stems are cut back by one-third after flowering to maintain a dense mat. Frost-damaged stems are cut to the ground in spring. Rooted runners are separated and replanted.Pruning Schedule
Prune: March–April
early spring
Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 2 gallons
