How to Grow and Care for Spur Flower

The name “spur flower” refers to plants within the Plectranthus genus, a group in the mint family admired for its fast growth and attractive foliage. These versatile plants are perennial shrubs and groundcovers native to tropical areas in the southern hemisphere. They can be grown as houseplants or as outdoor annuals in some climates, and many varieties produce seasonal flowers.

Spur Flower Care

Light

Spur flowers thrive in bright, indirect light, which mimics the filtered sunlight of their native habitats. Place them near a window with sheer curtains or in a spot that receives dappled sun. While some species tolerate full sun, too much direct exposure can scorch the leaves. Insufficient light will cause the plant to develop weak, leggy growth.

Soil

Plectranthus requires a well-draining potting medium to prevent its roots from becoming waterlogged, which can lead to root rot. A standard potting soil amended with materials like perlite or coarse sand will provide the necessary aeration and drainage. Containers used for planting must have adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to escape freely.

Water

Spur flowers prefer soil that is kept evenly moist but not saturated. A reliable method is to check the top inch or two of soil; if it feels dry to the touch, it is time to water again. When watering, do so thoroughly until water runs out of the container’s drainage holes. Allow the soil to dry slightly before the next watering to ensure roots get enough moisture without becoming soggy.

Temperature and Humidity

Plectranthus prefers warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range is between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants are not frost-tolerant and should be brought indoors for the winter in colder climates. While they tolerate average household humidity, you can increase moisture by misting the leaves or placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.

Fertilizer

To support their fast growth, feed spur flowers during the spring and summer growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to four weeks, diluted to half-strength to avoid burning the roots. Reduce or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter when growth slows.

Popular Spur Flower Varieties

The Plectranthus genus is diverse, offering a range of foliage and flower types. This allows them to be used in various settings, including hanging baskets, container gardens, and as groundcover.

‘Mona Lavender’ (Plectranthus ‘Mona Lavender’) is a popular hybrid from South Africa, prized for its dark green, glossy leaves that have distinct purple undersides. This variety produces spikes of lavender-colored tubular flowers in the fall as the days get shorter. Its square-shaped purple stems also add to its appeal, making it a great choice for indoor containers and shaded garden beds.

Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus), which is not a true ivy, is a classic trailing plant from southern Africa. It has glossy, green leaves with scalloped edges that cascade from hanging baskets or pots. This vigorous variety produces small white or pale mauve flowers and is a long-standing houseplant favorite.

Vick’s Plant (Plectranthus tomentosus) has fleshy, fuzzy leaves that release a strong camphor or menthol aroma when crushed. This succulent-like perennial has a cascading growth habit and produces lavender blooms in spring and fall. The name tomentosa is Latin for ‘cushion stuffing,’ referring to the dense hairs on its leaves.

Pruning and Propagation

Regular pruning encourages the plant to become bushier and more compact. Pinch back the growing tips of the stems to stimulate new branches to form just below the pinch. Cutting back overgrown stems helps maintain the plant’s shape, and removing spent flower spikes can encourage a longer blooming period.

Propagating spur flowers is a straightforward process using stem cuttings, best done during spring and summer. Select a healthy stem, cut a section a few inches long just below a leaf node, and remove the lower leaves to expose the nodes. For water propagation, place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the nodes are submerged and changing the water every few days. To root directly in soil, you can dip the cut end in rooting hormone before inserting it into a pot with moist, well-draining potting mix. Place cuttings in bright, indirect light, and roots will develop within a few weeks.

Common Spur Flower Issues

Spur flowers can encounter pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. These common insects feed on the plant’s sap and can be managed by rinsing the leaves with water or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Inspect the undersides of leaves regularly to catch infestations early.

Leggy growth, characterized by long, sparse stems, is a result of the plant not receiving enough light. To fix this, move the plant to a location with brighter, indirect sunlight. Pruning the leggy stems back will also encourage fuller, more compact growth.

Sudden leaf drop is a sign of environmental stress, caused by underwatering or abrupt changes in temperature. To prevent this, ensure a consistent watering schedule. Place the plant in a location away from drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations.