Table of Contents
The silver-grey leaves are deeply veined, and the flowers are borne in white, pink or blue clusters.
Let’s dive right in and learn some silver spur flower facts.
Silver Spurflower
The silver spur flower blooms in the summer, and the flowers are white. The silver spur flower is native to South Africa and Zimbabwe.
The silver spur flower is a popular plant to grow as a houseplant. The silver spur flower does well in full sun or partial shade. The silver spur flower prefers well-drained soil. The silver sunflower can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, or division.
Plant Characteristics
The silver spurflower gets its name from the silver-coloured bracts that surround the flowers. The leaves of the silver spur flower are dark green and have a wrinkled appearance. The flowers of the silver spur flower are white and tubular-shaped.
Silver spurflowers are easy to grow and make great additions to gardens. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Silver spurflowers are drought tolerant and can even grow in poor-quality soils.
Features
Plectranthus argentatus, commonly known as silver spurflower, is a perennial plant native to South Africa. The leaves of the silver spur flower are silver-grey and have a crinkled or ruffled appearance. The flowers of the silver spur flower are white or pale blue, and blooming occurs from summer to fall.
Plectranthus argentatus is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 2 feet in height and width. The silver spurflower is an easy plant to care for and is drought-tolerant. It can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, or division.
Uses
Plectranthus argentatus has many uses both in the garden and in the home. In the garden, it can be used as a hedge, screen, or ground cover.
It is also a popular plant for containers and hanging baskets. Silver spurflowers can be used as a houseplant or arrangement in the home. The leaves can also be used to make herbal teas.
Plant Feed
Plectranthus argentatus is not a heavy feeder. However, it will benefit from being fed every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
If you wish to encourage blooming, use a fertilizer that contains phosphorus. Overfeeding can result in leaf drops, so err on caution.
Watering
When watering, silver spurflowers should be kept moist but not wet. Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry in between watering.
These plants are not drought tolerant and must be watered more frequently during hot, dry weather. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so be sure to drain any excess water from the saucer or pot.
Soil
Plectranthus argentatus grows best in well-drained, sandy, to gritty soil rich in organic matter. It is tolerant of occasional drought once established but looks best with regular watering during periods of extended heat.
Plectranthus argentatus is not particular about soil pH but does best in slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0 – 7.5).
Pot Size
The silver spurflower (Plectranthus argentatus) is a fast-growing, evergreen perennial that can reach heights of up to 3 feet. It has silver-grey leaves and clusters of blue flowers that bloom from summer to fall.
Pot size will depend on the age and size of your silver spurflower plant. A young plant can be started in a 4-inch pot, while an adult plant will need a 12-inch pot. Be sure to use a well-draining potting mix.
Basic Care Summary
Plectranthus argentatus, silver spurflower, is a beautiful plant that can be used as a groundcover, in pots, or in hanging baskets. It has silver-grey leaves with purple undersides and small blue flowers. The silver spur flower is native to South Africa and grows best in full sun to partial shade.
It is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much water. The silver spurflower is drought tolerant and can even tolerate light frost.
Planting Instructions
Plectranthus argentatus, commonly known as silver spur flower, is a fast-growing perennial plant that produces silver-coloured leaves. This eye-catching plant is native to Africa and can be found in woodlands, savannas, and forest margins.
This plant is easy to care for and can tolerate most soil types. It prefers full sun to partial shade and needs regular watering. The silver spur flower is an annual or short-lived perennial in colder climates. In frost-free areas, it can be grown as an evergreen shrub.
Watering Instructions
Water silver spurflowers regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water more frequently during hot, dry weather. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering. These plants are tolerant of brief periods of drought.
Fertilizing Instructions
Fertilizer instructions for silver spurflowers (Plectranthus argentatus) are essential for this plant to maintain its vibrant silver colour. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.
An all-purpose fertilizer with a 5-10-5 ratio or a 10-10-10 ratio works well. Fertilize silver spurflowers every two weeks during the growing season. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how often to fertilize.
Pruning Instructions
Prune silver spurflowers as needed to shape and control growth. Pinch back the tips of stems to encourage bushiness. Cut the plant by one-third in late winter or early spring to promote new growth.
Pests
Pests are not a big problem for silver spur flowers. Watch for aphids, mealybugs and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Pest control for silver spur flowers should also monitor slugs and snails. These pests are attracted to the silver spurflower’s leaves, which they will eat. To control them, set out traps or baits around the plant. You can also pick them off by hand.
Diseases
Disease-resistant silver spurflowers are available, but Plectranthus argentatus can still be susceptible to fungal problems, such as downy mildew, root rot and verticillium wilt.
These diseases are often the result of too much moisture around the plant. Proper air circulation and drainage can help prevent these issues.
Other Facts and Tips
- This silver-leaved beauty originates from South Africa.
- It’s a perennial, meaning it will come back year after year in your garden.
- Plectranthus argentatus can get quite large, so give it plenty of room to grow.
- This plant does best in full sun to partial shade.
- It’s relatively drought-tolerant once established, so don’t worry about watering it too often.
- Plectranthus argentatus is an excellent choice for adding some silver foliage to your garden. It’s easy to care for and will come back year after year. Give it plenty of room to grow and enjoy its silver leaves all season long.
- This plant symbolizes protection, health, and prosperity.
Frequently Asked Questions About this Flower
How do you take care of a Plectranthus?
Plectranthus is a genus of plants in the family Lamiaceae. There are over 350 species of Plectranthus, and they come from all over the world. They are usually herbs or subshrubs, and many are grown as ornamentals.
Plectranthus plants do best in well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. They can be propagated from seed, cuttings, or division. Sow seeds in late winter or early spring, and young transplant seedlings into well-drained soil once they are large enough to handle. Take cuttings from new growth in late spring or early summer, and root them in moist sand or vermiculite.
Is Plectranthus Silver Shield a perennial?
No. Plectranthus Silver Shield is a tender annual that dies back to the ground each winter.
It’s best to sow seeds directly outdoors in late spring after all danger of frost has passed. Keep soil evenly moist until plants are well established. Fertilize lightly once or twice during the growing season with a balanced organic fertilizer. Plants will benefit from regular deadheading to promote new blooms.
How do you grow Plectranthus Silver Shield?
Plectranthus Silver Shield (Plectranthus argentatus) is an evergreen perennial that is easy to care for and grows well in most climates. It can be grown indoors or outdoors and prefers full sun but will also grow in partial shade. Plectranthus Silver Shield requires moderate watering and should be fertilized monthly with a balanced fertilizer. It can be propagated by dividing the plants or by seed.
Plectranthus Silver Shield, also known as Silver Plectranthus, is a beautiful perennial that adds texture and interest to any garden or landscape. This plant is easy to care for and grows well in most climates. It prefers full sun but will also develop.
Can Plectranthus grow in full sun?
Plectranthus can grow in full sun, but it may need more water.
Plectranthus is a succulent perennial that originates from South Africa. It is an easy-to-grow plant that does well in containers and hanging baskets. Plectranthus prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It can tolerate light frost but will die back in severe cold weather conditions.
How fast does Silver Spurflower grow?
Silver spurflower proliferates, typically reaching heights of 2 to 3 feet within the first year. After that, it will continue to grow but at a slower rate.
Is Plectranthus frost hardy?
Plectranthus is frost hardy to USDA Zone 10.
This plant is a tender perennial in all other zones, meaning it will not survive winter temperatures below about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. It can be grown annually in colder climates or brought indoors when frost threatens.
Plectranthus plants are drought tolerant and easy to grow, making them a good option for gardeners in warmer climates who want a showy perennial that doesn’t require much care. They come in various colours, including pink, red, purple, and white, so there’s sure to be one that fits your garden style.
Is Plectranthus toxic to dogs?
Yes, Plectranthus is toxic to dogs. The toxins in Plectranthus can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even seizures in dogs. So it’s essential to keep plants containing Plectranthus away from your pet dog.
How do you overwinter a silver spurflower?
You can overwinter a silver spurflower by bringing it inside and keeping it in a cool, dry place.
Ensure the pot has a drainage hole so the plant doesn’t sit in water, which could cause root rot. Also, be sure to water sparingly until you see new growth emerging; then, you can resume your regular watering schedule.
When temperatures start to rise again in the spring, you can replant the silver spurflower outdoors. It should do well in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
