Plectranthus coleoides 'Variegatus'

Aromatic perennial herbaceous plant, scented with incense, decumbent habit, very attractive due to its beautiful leaves, repels annoying insects.

Prostrate growth habit in shade or partial shade and fast growth. Of Indian origin, attractive for its small hairy, slightly hairy oval and light green heart-shaped oval leaves edged in creamy white and with lighter, lemon yellow shoots. It is mostly used as a ground cover in undergrowth areas, perfect for hanging baskets and raised pots.
Plectranthus derives from the Greek word 'Plektron', meaning 'spur', and 'Anthos', meaning flower. This refers to the spur found at the base of the corolla.

Classification
Common name: Variegated Plectranthus, Variegated Swedish ivy, Frankincense.
Genus and species: Plectranthus coleoides.
Cultivar: 'Variegatus'.
Family: Lamiaceae.

Characteristics
Description of flowers: Tubulars borne on numerous showy spikes, up to 20 cm long.
Flower color: White.
Flowering period: From late summer to early winter.
Leaves: Small green in opposite pairs, pubescent, heart-shaped with a crenate margin and edged in white.
Fragrance: Very aromatic leaves, with a pungent scent of incense.
Dimensions: 30 cm high and expands indefinitely.

Cultivation
Exposure: From sun to shade.
Soil: Any, well draining.
Irrigation: As needed, without excess, keeping in mind that the root system is rather superficial.
Frost resistance: USDA 9b, tolerates light frosts.

Care
Pruning: It is better to prune often to thicken and reinvigorate from after flowering to the beginning of summer, to then allow the formation of floral stems.
Propagation: From cuttings with more than 15°C or from offshoot, a method according to which it propagates spontaneously.

Notes of interest
Herbal properties: The incense plant has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, largely contains thymol; the leaves can be immersed in hot water for fumigation. It is useful to burn the leaves to keep insects away.