Overview
Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct. is a shrubby perennial plant with aromatic leaves belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae).
Origin
It is widespread in Africa, from Ethiopia to Angola, through Nigeria, Cameroon, Congo and Zambia. It natively grows in the scrublands and dry grasslands of the savanna, often found at altitudes up to 1,000 m.
Common Names
It is known by several common names, such as Spur Flower, False Beauty, Variegated Swedish Ivy, and Silver Plectranthus.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 1.2 m tall and 1 m wide, with a woody stem and silver-green, velvety leaves. The edges of the leaves are scalloped, giving it an attractive appearance. In summer and autumn, it produces spikes of small, tubular, lavender-purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Uses
Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct. has several uses in traditional medicine and aromatherapy. The leaves are used to treat respiratory problems, fever, and headaches. The essential oil extracted from the leaves is believed to have antifungal and antimicrobial properties. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant for gardens, patios, and indoor spaces due to its attractive silver leaves.
Light Requirements
Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct. typically grows best in partial to full shade. It should not be placed in direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves and inhibit growth. Indoors, it should be placed in a bright area with filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct. is between 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C). It is a tropical plant and does not tolerate frost or extreme cold well. If growing outdoors, it should be brought indoors or covered during colder months. Indoors, it should be kept in a room with consistent temperatures and away from cold drafts.
Soil Requirements
When planting Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct., it is important to use well-draining soil as the plant does not tolerate waterlogged roots. A mixture of perlite, vermiculite, and peat moss is ideal. This plant prefers soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. The soil should be enriched with organic matter and fertilized regularly during the growing season.
Cultivation Methods
Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct. is a perennial plant that is typically grown indoors in pots. It can be propagated by stem cuttings or by seed. The plant prefers a well-drained soil and partial shade. It can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils but prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Watering Needs
The Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct. plant likes to be kept moist but not waterlogged. It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. When watering, it is best to water deeply and then allow the soil to drain before placing it back in its saucer. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to make sure that the soil is not too wet.
Fertilization
Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct. is not a heavy feeder and can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to burned leaves and reduced growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct. but can be done if wanted. It is best to prune the plant back in the spring before new growth appears. Dead or yellow leaves should be removed whenever noticed. Pinching back the tips of the plant can help promote a bushier growth habit.
Propagation of Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct.
Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct, commonly known as the silver spurflower, is a bushy perennial plant with attractive silver foliage and blue flowers. It is native to South Africa and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers.
The plant can be propagated through various methods, including:
1. Stem Cuttings
Stem tip cuttings taken from healthy, mature plants root easily and quickly. The ideal time to take cuttings is when the plant is actively growing, usually in spring or early summer. Cuttings should be around 10cm long and should be taken just below a node. Remove the lower leaves, dip the base in rooting hormone and insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a shaded location until roots have formed.
2. Division
Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct can also be propagated through division. This is best done in spring when new growth appears. Carefully dig up the plant and divide the root ball into several smaller plants, making sure that each division has a healthy root system. Replant each division in a well-draining potting mix and keep moist until established.
3. Seed
Although Plectranthus zatarhendi auct. var. zatarhendi auct can be grown from seed, it is not commonly used as a propagation method. The seeds are small and should be sown shallowly in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and the pot in a warm, shaded area until germination occurs. Seedlings should then be transplanted into individual pots and grown on until they are large enough to be planted in the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Plectranthus zatarhendi
Plectranthus zatarhendi, also known as the silver spurflower, is a hardy perennial plant native to South Africa. Like any plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests, which can lead to reduced growth and even death of the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the Plectranthus zatarhendi, as well as ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage, which leads to the plant roots being constantly saturated with water and oxygen-deprived. To manage root rot, remove affected plants and improve soil drainage by adding organic matter to the soil.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. It is more common during warm, humid weather. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected plant parts and spray the plant with a solution made from baking soda and water (1 teaspoon of baking soda to 1 quart of water).
Leaf spot: This disease appears as circular, brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. It is caused by a fungus and is more common during humid weather. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid watering the foliage of the plant.
Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from the leaves and shoots of the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, use a blast of water to remove them from the plant or spray with insecticidal soap.
Spider mites: These tiny insects feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and bronzing of the foliage. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water or insecticidal soap and keep the plant well-hydrated to prevent dehydration stress which is favorable to spider mites.
Snails and slugs: These creatures feed on young, tender leaves of the plant. To manage them, handpick and remove them from the plant or use traps containing beer to attract them.
With proper care and monitoring, Plectranthus zatarhendi can thrive without being vulnerable to diseases and pests.
