Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Plectranthus oertendahlii prefers consistent moisture but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Reduce watering in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid soggy soil.
Also known as Brazilian-Coleus · Candleplant · Silvervein Spurflower
Plectranthus oertendahlii is a striking evergreen perennial prized for its velvety, patterned foliage and delicate, tubular flowers, thriving in shade.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun, but avoid intense afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-draining
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and avoid sudden temperature drops. Tolerates cooler temperatures in winter if kept dry.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Reduce or cease feeding in fall and winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Plectranthus oertendahlii prefers consistent moisture but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Reduce watering in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid soggy soil.
Prune regularly to maintain a bushy shape and encourage denser foliage. Pinch back the tips of stems to promote branching. Remove any leggy or overgrown stems to improve air circulation and overall plant health.
Pruning can be done at any time.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 5-10 cm cuttings from healthy stems, remove lower leaves, and insert them into moist potting mix or water.
Roots typically form within a few weeks, after which they can be potted.
Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Plectranthus Oertendahlii (Plectranthus oertendahlii)
Where Plectranthus Oertendahlii (Plectranthus oertendahlii) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Plectranthus |
| Species | Plectranthus oertendahlii |
Similar in genus Plectranthus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
