Plectranthus ciliatus: A Shade-Loving Gem with Gorgeous Fall Flowers

This standout shade perennial has graced the UC Irvine Arboretum's shade border for years. Its crowning glory: flowers in a versatile, goes-with-everything hue that appear over an 8- to 10-week period in fall. But that's not all—nursery manager Laura Lyons notes it tolerates most soils, has no pest or disease issues, and asks only for regular water and light feeding. The foliage, with purple undersides and plenty of substance, is exceptional. Staff prune annually to maintain a 3½-ft-wide, 18-inch-high mound.

The catch? It's still rare in the nursery trade. Your best bet: the UC Irvine Arboretum Fall Perennial Sale (Oct 21–22, 10–3, $2) or the Huntington Botanical Gardens fall sale (Oct 12–15).