Zulu Spurflower Plectranthus zuluensis
ABOUT
Plectranthus zuluensis, commonly known as Zulu Spurflower, is an ornamental plant known for its attractive foliage and flowering habits. Visually, the Zulu Spurflower showcases a lush green appearance due to its dense and spreading foliage. The leaves of the plant display a velvety texture and can have a mix of green hues, often with a slightly quilted look, which adds to its tactile appeal. Edges of the leaves are gently scalloped, which gives them a decorative, soft serrated appearance. Blooming typically occurs in favorable conditions, where the plant sports spikes of flowers. The flower spikes are comprised of tubular blossoms that are usually shades of light purple or mauve, although there can be some variation in color. Each flower is small and delicate, contributing to the overall feathery and light aesthetic of the plant's blooming parts. Due to its spreading nature, the Zulu Spurflower fits well as ground cover, and it can be an eye-catching addition to garden beds with its cluster of flowers and plush leaves. Overall, the Zulu Spurflower is a plant with both an attractive foliage presence and charming flowers, making it sought after for both its ornamental beauty and its easy-going nature in garden settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Zulu Spurflower, Zulu Plectranthus
Common names
Plectranthus zuluensis.
ToxicityTo humans
Zulu Spurflower is not widely known for its toxicity to humans, and there is limited information available regarding its potential poisonous effects. That said, like many plants, it could potentially cause irritation or an allergic reaction if ingested or if the sap comes in contact with skin or eyes. In general, it is advisable to avoid eating any plant unless it is known to be safe for consumption. If someone does ingest Zulu Spurflower and experiences symptoms, it would be prudent to seek medical advice.
To pets
Zulu Spurflower is not commonly listed as toxic to pets. However, since comprehensive information on its effects is not widely available, it is recommended to prevent your pets from ingesting the plant. If an animal does ingest Zulu Spurflower and shows any signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or changes in behavior, it is essential to contact a veterinarian as these could be signs of poisoning or an allergic reaction. It is always best to err on the side of caution and keep pets away from plants that have not been verified as safe for them.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Zulu Spurflower adds visual interest to gardens with its lush foliage and striking purple flowers.
- Drought Tolerance: It's well-suited to dry climates, requiring less watering than many other plants once established.
- Ease of Care: This plant is low-maintenance, making it ideal for novice gardeners or those with limited time.
- Fast Growth: Zulu Spurflower can grow quickly, filling in garden spaces and providing immediate gratification.
- Pest Resistance: It's known for being resistant to many common pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Shade Tolerance: It can thrive in partial shade, offering flexibility in garden design and plant placement.
- Ground Cover: Its growth habit makes it an excellent ground cover, helping to prevent soil erosion and suppress weeds.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, promoting pollinator health in the garden.
- Companion Planting: Can be used in companion planting to benefit other plants and enhance overall garden health.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Plectranthus zuluensis is traditionally used to reduce inflammation.
- Antimicrobial: It possesses antimicrobial properties against certain bacteria and fungi.
- Analgesic: The plant has been used for its pain-relieving effects.
- Anti-epileptic: Some sources suggest it may have anti-epileptic properties.
- Wound healing: There are claims of its use in promoting the healing of wounds.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Plectranthus zuluensis, commonly known as Zulu Spurflower, is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and pots for its attractive foliage and flowering habit.
- In its native habitat, the Zulu Spurflower may provide cover and habitat for small wildlife due to its dense growth.
- The leaves of Zulu Spurflower can be crushed and used to release a pleasant aroma, making it a natural air freshener.
- Some cultures may use the Zulu Spurflower in spiritual or ritualistic practices due to its colorful appearance and fragrance.
- The plant can be used in companion planting to create an aesthetically varied landscape and to attract beneficial insects for pest control.
- Zulu Spurflower is sometimes included in educational plant collections to demonstrate the diversity of the Lamiaceae family to horticulture students.
- The fast-growing nature of Plectranthus zuluensis makes it a good candidate for erosion control in some regions.
- Gardeners may propagate Zulu Spurflower for use in plant swaps or as affordable landscaping solutions for community projects.
- The plant's ability to grow in various light conditions makes it suitable for living walls and vertical gardens, adding vivid green textures and subtle flowers to such environments.
- The Zulu Spurflower's stems and leaves can sometimes be used in arts and crafts for creating natural dyes or pressed flower artworks.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant_name is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant_name is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Zulu Spurflower, the common name for Plectranthus zuluensis, primarily symbolizes adaptability and resilience due to its vigorous growth habit and ability to thrive in various conditions.
- It may also represent protection or warding off negativity, given that some species in the Plectranthus genus are believed to have medicinal properties and have been used in traditional remedies.
- The vibrant purple flowers can symbolize royalty and elegance, reflecting the rich, striking color traditionally associated with nobility.
WaterZulu Spurflower should be watered once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The frequency of watering might vary with the season, typically ranging from once a week during the active growth period in spring and summer to every other week during the dormant period in fall and winter. Water the plant thoroughly until water runs from the drainage holes, using approximately 16 to 32 ounces, depending on the size of the pot and the plant. It's crucial to avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to partly dry out between waterings to maintain the ideal moisture level for the Zulu Spurflower.
LightZulu Spurflower prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. The ideal spot for this plant is a location where it receives filtered sunlight, such as near a north- or east-facing window. Avoid placing it in direct afternoon sun, which may scorch its leaves, especially during the hot summer months. A balance of good light without direct scorching rays will keep the Zulu Spurflower healthy and thriving.
TemperatureZulu Spurflower thrives in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, ideally around 70 degrees. It can survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is sensitive to extreme cold and should not be subjected to temperatures below 50 degrees, as this can cause damage or kill the plant.
PruningZulu Spurflower should be pruned to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any leggy or spindly stems. Pruning can be done as needed throughout the year, but the best time is at the end of winter or the beginning of spring before new growth begins. By cutting back the stems, you promote more vigorous growth and a fuller plant appearance. Pruning also provides the opportunity to remove any dead or damaged foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilZulu Spurflower prefers a well-draining potting mix with good organic matter, such as a blend of peat, pine bark, and perlite or sand. The ideal pH range for Zulu Spurflower is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0. To encourage lush foliage and healthy growth, incorporate some compost or well-rotted manure into the mix.
RepottingZulu Spurflower should be repotted once every 1-2 years to avoid becoming pot-bound and to refresh the soil. Choose a pot that's slightly larger than the current one, ensuring it has adequate drainage. The best time to repot this plant is during spring or early summer, at the beginning of its active growth period.
Humidity & MistingZulu Spurflower thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally ranging from 40% to 60%. This plant is tolerant of average indoor humidity but may benefit from increased moisture in the air, which can be achieved through regular misting or placing the plant near a humidifier.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Zulu Spurflower in bright, indirect light and maintain humidity.
Outdoor
Partial shade, protect Zulu Spurflower from intense afternoon sun.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cyclePlectranthus zuluensis, commonly known as Zulu Spurflower, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in warm, moist soil, sprouting into a seedling. The seedling then grows into a juvenile plant, developing a root system and foliage through photosynthesis. As it matures into an adult, the Zulu Spurflower produces distinctive inflorescences of tubular flowers, typically in shades of blue or violet, attracting pollinators. After pollination, the flowers set seed, which will disperse to propagate the next generation. The adult plant will continue to grow and produce flowers seasonally, usually thriving in partial shade environments. Over time, the plant may spread vegetatively through stem cuttings and division, living for several years before completing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring - Summer
For Plectranthus zuluensis, commonly known as the Zulu Spurflower, the most popular method of propagation is through stem cuttings. This typically takes place during the warmer months, such as late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. To propagate Zulu Spurflower, a healthy stem cutting about 4 to 6 inches long (10 to 15 centimeters) is selected and the lower leaves are removed. The cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development, although this is optional. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring at least one node (where the leaves were removed) is beneath the soil surface. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy, and the cutting should be placed in a location with bright, indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, and once they have established, the new plant can be transplanted to a permanent location.
