Plectranthus ernstii aka Plectranthus ernestii
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Plectranthus ernstii is a slow growing, semi-succulent perennial with swollen stems and a compact habit that resembles a bonsai. It is an ideal plant for containers and rock gardens. It has bright green to yellowish green aromatic dentate leaves.
In habitat Plectranthus ernstii blooms in fall with purple flowers on a short inflorescence and is pollinated by insects.
The specific epithet ernstii is named after the horticulturist Ernst van Jaarsveld, who has made substantial contributions to the knowledge of the genus. The specific epithet is often misspelled as ‘ernestii’.
Plectranthus ernstii can be grown from stem cuttings or from seed. Cuttings root fairly quickly in a well-draining medium like perlite or vermiculite. Cuttings should be kept moist and shaded until they have rooted.
This plant makes an interesting bonsai subject. Over time it forms thick caudiciform stems and root. Prune plants as desired apply a well-balanced fertilizer every few months in summer. This plant needs well-drained soils to avoid rot.
Horticultural Data
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Common Names: Bonsai mint, Caudiciform Plectranthus, Bonsai Spurflower
Family: Lamiaceae
Origin: Plectranthus ernstii is native to the Natal Province of South Africa where it grows on rocky ledges out of reach of most predators.
Height: 1-2′
Width: 1-2′
Cold Tolerance: 20 to 25°F, -6.6 to -3.8°C
Heat Tolerance: Good heat tolerance
Light Requirement: Full sun along the coast to shade in hot inland climates
Water needs: Drought tolerant
Maintenance: Prune plants as desired apply a well-balanced fertilizer every few months in summer.
Uses: This plant makes an interesting bonsai subject. Over time it forms thick caudiciform stems and roots
Propagation: This plant can be grown from stem cuttings or from seed. Cuttings root fairly quickly in a well-draining medium like perlite or vermiculite. Cuttings should be kept moist and shaded until they have rooted.
Problems: This plant needs well-drained soils to avoid rot.
Research Links:
http://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=2861
http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/204145/
http://plantlust.com/plants/30600/plectranthus-ernstii/
https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/plectranthusernstii.htm
Shipping & Availability
Description | Horticultural Data | Shipping & Availability | Top
There is a minimum purchase of any 4 plants for online orders. All plants shipped bare root. Other sizes may be available for pick up from our growing grounds in Fallbrook, CA. For more information, give us a call at 760-990-4762.
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