PLANT

The Plectranthus coleoides plant is native to eastern Australia, Fiji and New Caledonia. It is an evergreen perennial with an erect then drooping habit, small in size (not exceeding 30 cm in height). The leaves are oval and hairy, light green, 6-10 cm long and crenate. The flowers are light mauve or white in raceme-like inflorescences.

CULTIVATION

It fears the cold, so it should be grown in a pot in a cool, bright room in October. The preferred exposure is in the shade, but it resists half sun, as long as it is not in the middle hours of the summer day.

PROPERTIES

Due to the strong aroma emanating from the leaves, especially in the evening, it is an effective mosquito repellent.