Plectranthus care requirements
Quick answer
For Plectranthus, care requirements come down to this: Plectranthus (Spring/Fall type) encompasses over 300 species of succulent plants from Africa, Asia, and Australia. While many are grown as foliage plants (like Swedish ivy), succulent species like P. ernstii and P. neochilus have swollen stems and thick leaves that store water efficiently. The genus name means 'spurred flower' referring to the shape of the flower tubes. Many succulent Plectranthus have fragrant leaves when crushed, producing scents ranging from citrus to camphor to deter herbivores.
Start here:
- 1. Water when top inch of soil is dry — every 7-14 days during growing season
- 2. Provide bright indirect light — direct afternoon sun can scorch leaves
What care requirements mean for Plectranthus
Plectranthus (Spring/Fall type) encompasses over 300 species of succulent plants from Africa, Asia, and Australia. While many are grown as foliage plants (like Swedish ivy), succulent species like P. ernstii and P. neochilus have swollen stems and thick leaves that store water efficiently. The genus name means 'spurred flower' referring to the shape of the flower tubes. Many succulent Plectranthus have fragrant leaves when crushed, producing scents ranging from citrus to camphor to deter herbivores.
How to meet Plectranthus care requirements
- 1
Water when top inch of soil is dry — every 7-14 days during growing season
- 2
Provide bright indirect light — direct afternoon sun can scorch leaves
- 3
Use standard cactus/succulent soil with added perlite
- 4
Fragrant leaves are a natural defense — not a sign of problems
- 5
P. neochilus (lobster flower) has blue flower spikes and spreads readily
Keeping Plectranthus in range
Water when soil is dry; provide bright indirect light; use well-draining soil; protect from frost.