Plectranthus ernstii is an original succulent plant, much appreciated for its thick, swollen trunk (caudex), which gives it the appearance of a small bonsai. Its foliage consists of small, dark green leaves, slightly velvety and fragrant when crushed. In fall and winter, it can produce pretty white to lavender tubular flowers.
It is a slow-growing plant, making it an excellent collector's item and a magnificent decorative specimen. A lack of light makes the plant more elongated, while good light promotes a compact habit and a well-developed caudex.
Lightly prune new shoots to maintain a compact shape and highlight its characteristic trunk.
Remove dry or damaged leaves as needed. Over time, its caudex becomes thicker and more decorative.
Tip: To obtain a beautiful caudex, let the plant receive plenty of light and avoid over-watering. The older it gets, the more impressive its small bonsai appearance becomes.
Non-toxic to animals.
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Origin: South Africa
- Watering: Allow the soil to dry slightly on the surface between waterings.
- Ambient humidity: Medium.
- Soil type: Very draining.
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Light: Moderate.
- Orientation: East, west or 1m from a south-facing window.
- Growth: Slow.
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Temperature: Warm
- Between 18ᵒC and 25ᵒC.
Pot diameter: 10 cm.
Grown in Quebec.
Like nature, every plant is unique. Natural items are all different and may contain irregularities.
