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(Plectranthus ecklonii)
Large Spurflower (Plectranthus ecklonii)
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Andy McKay
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Andy McKay
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Andy McKay | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Andy McKay | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2020-05-30T12:05:05-07:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Plectranthus ecklonii, commonly known as Large Spurflower, is a semi-deciduous to evergreen shrub native to the Eastern Cape of South Africa, where it thrives in woodland areas and forest margins. It typically grows to a height of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) and a width of 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters). The plant has a bushy growth habit with soft, semi-succulent stems and large, ovate, slightly hairy leaves. From late summer to autumn, it produces showy spikes of tubular flowers that can range in color from mauve to deep purple, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Large Spurflower is valued for its ornamental foliage and vibrant floral displays, making it a popular choice for mixed borders, container gardens, and as an accent plant in subtropical and Mediterranean climates. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal pruning. In cultivation, it prefers part shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It needs medium amounts of water and well-drained soil to prevent root rot. While generally pest-resistant, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites under stress. Plectranthus ecklonii is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, but it can become leggy if not pruned regularly.CC BY-SA 4.0
Large Spurflower is valued for its ornamental foliage and vibrant floral displays, making it a popular choice for mixed borders, container gardens, and as an accent plant in subtropical and Mediterranean climates. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal pruning. In cultivation, it prefers part shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It needs medium amounts of water and well-drained soil to prevent root rot. While generally pest-resistant, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites under stress. Plectranthus ecklonii is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, but it can become leggy if not pruned regularly.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 4-6 feet
- Width: 3-5 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Purple
- Flowering Season: Fall
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Woodland areas and forest margins in the Eastern Cape of South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Tall Spurflower
Scientific Names: , Plectranthus ecklonii,
GBIF Accepted Name: Plectranthus ecklonii Benth.