Plectranthus, also known as Silver Shield or Silver Spurflower, from the Lamiaceae family is a tender annual in most zones, but perennializes in the hot zones of 10 & 11. The genus is Plectranthus and species is P. argentatus. Plectranthus adds a soft, almost frosty pastel touch to fresh bouquets, floral designs, and gardens. The silvery background notes make other focal flowers pop!

Upon receiving your plugs, give them some time to harden outside in real-life temperatures and natural light changes for up to one week. Transplant the plugs directly into the ground once you are 100% sure that all chances of frost are in the past. Choose a location that is under full sun or partial shade; Plectranthus are reasonably flexible so long as the soil is fertilized and it is watered regularly. For the hottest zones, avoiding direct afternoon sunlight is optimal to protect against scorched foliage. Plectranthus thrives in neutral weather temperatures ranging from 65-75 degrees F.

Photo Credit: By Dinkum - Own work, CC0

Plectranthus have very sturdy & strong stems, so netting or other supports are not necessary. Place the starter plugs 18 - 24” apart when planting. This will ensure good air circulation and prevent fungal issues like powdery mildew. On the subject of pests, Plectranthus is fairly resistant, but keep a look out for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Pinching Plectranthus is not necessary, but light pruning may be a good idea as it matures.

Photo Credit: By Raffi Kojian- gardenology.org, CC BY-SA 3.0

Harvesting Plectranthus during cool hours in the morning or late evening is best when the dew has dried as the colder hours reduce stress on the plant. Select the stems with fully grown leaves to showcase the best texture in a fresh floral arrangement. Always cut on the diagonal so that the plant can drink up the most room temperature water once placed in a vase. Notice the use of lukewarm or room temperature water with Plectranthus to avoid wilting. Plectranthus is sturdy and can handle up to two weeks of refrigeration between 36 - 41 Degrees F.

Photo Credit: RHS.org.uk