Silver Spurflower

(Plectranthus argentatus)

Silver Spurflower (Plectranthus argentatus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Plectranthus argentatus, commonly known as Silver Spurflower, is a semi-deciduous shrub in the mint family, native to Australia, particularly in rocky sites and dry scrub areas of Queensland and New South Wales. It typically grows to 1 m (3 ft) tall and broad, with a spreading habit. The plant is notable for its striking silvery-grey foliage that is velvety to the touch due to a dense covering of fine hairs. From late summer to fall, it produces bluish-white flowers on terminal racemes up to 30 cm (12 in) long, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators.

Silver Spurflower is valued for its attractive foliage and is used as an ornamental bedding plant in temperate regions. It is also suitable for container gardening and can be used in coastal gardens due to its tolerance of sea breezes. The plant is easy to propagate from cuttings, making it a convenient choice for gardeners. It has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, reflecting its desirability for cultivation. In terms of care, Silver Spurflower thrives in part shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It prefers medium amounts of water and well-drained soil. While it is generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites under certain conditions. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Shrub
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to rocky sites and dry scrub areas of Queensland and New South Wales, Australia

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Plectranthus argentatus , Coleus argentatus

GBIF Accepted Name: Plectranthus argentatus S.T.Blake