Plectranthus: Versatile Foliage & Flower Plants for Sun, Shade & Indoors

Two Popular Types

P. argentatus (Silver Shield)

• Vigorous in full sun to part shade (shade required in hot West).
• Evenly moist soil—never let dry out.
• Pinch to keep bushy in containers/beds.
• Hardy to zone 10 (30 °F).

P. ‘Mona Lavender’ (Houseplant)

• Bright indirect light or partial sun.
• 12-hour day length promotes flowering.
• 50–80 °F year-round.
• Water when top inch dry.
• Withhold fertilizer while blooming (short days). After bloom, feed 20-10-20 at ½ strength biweekly.
• Pinch tips for branching; cut spent flower stalks.
• Repot annually into 1–2″ larger pot with well-drained mix.

For annual culture, see How to Grow Annuals.