Silver Spurflower Plectranthus argentatus 'Hill House' (v)
ABOUT
Plectranthus argentatus 'Hill House', commonly known as Silver Spurflower, is a visually striking plant with vibrant and unique features. The leaves of Silver Spurflower are one of its most distinctive characteristics; they are broad, with a succulent texture, and have an almost velvet-like surface. The foliage possesses a silver or grayish hue that appears to sparkle when light is captured, giving the plant a shimmering effect. This silvery appearance is due to the fine hairs covering the leaves, which also lend a soft, tactile quality to the touch. The plant's overall growth habit is sprawling or spreading, forming a dense mat that often looks as if it's spilling luxuriously over the edges of containers or paths if used as ground cover. The Silver Spurflower blooms with clusters of delicate flowers that contrast nicely against the foliage. These flowers are typically an appealing shade of lilac or pale violet, with a tubular structure that is attractive to various pollinators, such as bees. In addition to its striking appearance, the plant sometimes emits a subtle, pleasant aroma which can be more noticeable when the leaves are brushed or crushed.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Silver Spurflower, Silver Plectranthus
Common names
Plectranthus argentatus
ToxicityTo humans
Plectranthus argentatus, commonly known as silver spurflower, is not generally recognized as a toxic plant to humans. There is limited information on the specific 'Hill House' variety's toxicity, but the Plectranthus genus is not typically associated with severe toxicity. If accidentally ingested, silver spurflower is unlikely to cause more than mild gastrointestinal discomfort, if any symptoms occur at all. However, it is always recommended to keep plants out of reach of small children who may chew on them, and to avoid eating any part of ornamental plants unless they are specifically identified as edible.
To pets
Silver spurflower is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets. The specific 'Hill House' variety of Plectranthus argentatus is similarly not associated with significant toxicity in animals such as dogs and cats. If a pet were to ingest parts of this plant, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. As with all non-food plants, it is wise to prevent pets from consuming them, but the silver spurflower does not typically pose a serious risk of poisoning to pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Silvery
Flower color
Light blue
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Australia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Plectranthus argentatus 'Hill House', commonly known as silver spurflower, has attractive, fuzzy, silver-grey foliage that adds an ornamental flare to gardens or as houseplants.
- Drought Tolerance: The silver spurflower is relatively drought-resistant, making it suitable for water-wise landscaping and reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Easy to Propagate: This plant can easily be propagated from cuttings, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Low Maintenance: Silver spurflower requires minimal care once established and does not demand frequent fertilization or specific soil conditions.
- Pest Resistance: The plant has natural resistance to many common pests, thereby reducing the need for chemical pest control measures.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of silver spurflower attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, helping to pollinate surrounding plants.
- Shade Tolerance: It is capable of growing in partial shade, offering flexibility in garden design and plant placement.
- Fast Growing: Silver spurflower grows fairly quickly, providing a swift impact on the landscape or garden setting.
- Versatility: It serves multiple purposes in the garden - as ground cover, border plant, container plant, or in hanging baskets.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Herbal sachets: Dried leaves of Silver spurflower can be used in sachets to give a pleasant aroma to drawers and wardrobes.
- Floral arrangements: Silver spurflower can be included in fresh or dried floral arrangements for its silvery foliage that provides a contrast to vibrant flowers.
- Insect repellent: The strong scent of Silver spurflower may deter certain insects when planted in borders or near outdoor seating areas.
- Culinary garnish: Although not a common culinary herb, Silver spurflower can be used as an ornamental garnish due to its attractive foliage.
- Artistic inspiration: The unique texture and color of Silver spurflower can serve as inspiration for artists and designers in various mediums.
- Photographic subject: With its striking leaves, Silver spurflower is often a subject for photographers practicing macro and nature photography.
- Craft projects: Leaves of Silver spurflower can be used in craft projects, like pressed flower art or natural potpourri mixes.
- Fabric dyeing: The leaves and stems of Silver spurflower may be used in the natural fabric dyeing process for subtle coloration.
- Educational tool: Silver spurflower can be used in educational settings to teach students about plant adaptation, especially its silvery leaves that reflect sunlight.
- Green roofing: Due to its hardy nature, Silver spurflower can be incorporated into green roof designs for aesthetic diversity and drought resistance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiSilver spurflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilitySilver spurflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Silver Spurflower
WaterThe Silver Spurflower should be watered deeply, allowing the top inch of the soil to dry out before the next watering. In general, watering once a week is adequate, but you may need to adjust the frequency depending on temperature and humidity. When watering, use approximately a half gallon per session for a medium-sized plant, ensuring even saturation without waterlogging the soil. Reduce watering in the winter months when the plant's growth slows down.
LightThe Silver Spurflower thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade. It is best placed in a location where it will receive filtered sunlight, such as near a window with sheer curtains. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.
TemperatureSilver Spurflowers prefer temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can withstand occasional dips down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50 degrees, as cold drafts can damage it. The ideal growing temperature is in the warmer part of its range, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning the Silver Spurflower encourages bushier growth and removes leggy stems. Prune lightly throughout the growing season as needed to shape the plant and remove any damaged or dead foliage. The best time for a more significant pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Silver Spurflower thrives best in a well-draining soil mix composed of loam, peat, and sand, which keeps it light and airy. The ideal pH range for the plant is slightly acidic to neutral, roughly between 6.0 and 7.0. Amending the soil with organic matter can help improve its structure and nutrient content.
RepottingSilver Spurflower should be repotted every two to three years or when it has outgrown its current pot. It is crucial to provide a slightly larger pot with fresh soil mix to allow for continued growth and health of the plant.
Humidity & MistingSilver Spurflower prefers moderate humidity levels, around 40-50%, which closely resemble its natural habitat. It is not a plant that requires high humidity, but it should not be placed in an excessively dry environment either.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light and avoid cold drafts.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, sheltered from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Plectranthus argentatus 'Hill House', commonly known as Silver Spurflower, begins with seed germination, which occurs in warm, moist soil conditions, typically in spring. After germination, the seedling goes through a vegetative growth stage, developing a rosette of fuzzy, silver-grey leaves and a sturdy stem. As the plant matures, it enters a period of rapid vegetative growth and starts to branch out, during which time it requires regular watering and some feeding. Flowering occurs in late summer to fall, where the plant produces spikes of attractive blue to mauve flowers that are appealing to pollinators. After flowering, seed production takes place, and once the seeds mature, they are dispersed by wind or wildlife, completing the reproductive cycle. If conditions are unfavorable, the Silver Spurflower may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, before resuming growth in the next favorable season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Plectranthus argentatus 'Hill House', commonly known as Silver Spurflower, is generally propagated through stem cuttings, a popular and effective method for this species. To propagate Silver Spurflower using stem cuttings, one should ideally take cuttings during the warmer months when the plant is actively growing, typically in late spring or early summer. Choose a healthy stem that is about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long and make a clean cut just below a node using a sharp, sterilized pair of scissors or pruning shears. Remove the lower leaves to leave only a few at the top and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. The cutting can then be planted in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. It should be kept moist and in a warm spot with indirect sunlight until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks. After the cutting has established a good root system, it can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the garden.
