We’ve decided to grow a little hedge of these plectranthus along our window in our new outdoor garden. The garden bed receives no sun at all and so it’s been a challenge to find plants that can grow well under these conditions.
So far we have planted some azaleas, jacobinias, hydrangeas, hellebores, native violets, fuschias and a “Yuletide” camellia. We are still trying to track down a yellow vireya rhododendron but we needed another darker flower colour and the foliage of the plectranthus will complement the other plants as well.

Plectranthus Mona Lavender isn’t a big plant growing to only 80cm (31in) in height and spreading about 60cm (23in) in width. They prefer part to full shade and struggle in areas that leave the exposed to the elements. Most plectranthus species are known to spread but the Mona Lavender (which is not a lavender at all) forms a neat little shrub with an upright, erect habit.

It will flower from late summer through autumn but even when it’s not in full display the deep green leaves and underside purple foliage make it incredibly attractive. I always prefer plants that have more than one benefit because they have more appeal all year round.

The can be propagated from softwood cuttings and this is best to do prior to flowering. Maintain its neat shape by light pruning after flowering and fertilise with a slow release fertiliser during spring.