Plectranthus
| Botanical Name | Plectranthus ciliatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Origin | South Africa |
Identification
Trailing stems densely covered in purple hair. Leaves purple on underside and showing purple veins above. Masses of white flowers with purple spots and purple hairs on the structure at the flower base. Flowers over a long season.Habitats
Forest edge, notably along road edge and watercourses. Spreading out from garden rubbish disposal sites. A popular pot plant.Impact to Biota and Ecosystems
Has the capacity to deeply smother the forest floor at any open edge, such as roadside. This prevents the growth of almost all native species. Can completely dominate the roadside scene.Dispersal Routes, Vectors, Infestation Sources
Increases largely by vegetative spread. Very vigorous spreading runners grow along the ground away from rubbish disposal sites. Seeding is also probable.Management
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Management |
|
| Physical Control |
Rotary slashing or mowing where appropriate, or use of weedeaters, dragfork or rake for smaller patches. |
| Disposal |
Allow cut material to dry out. Compost or send to refuse site for deep burial. |
| Chemical Control |
Spray with Glyphosate at 100 ml in 10 litres of water. |
|
Biological Control |
|
| Recommended Approach |
Spray larger areas. Mow or hand control smaller areas. |
Further Comment
A closely related plant, Plectranthus ecklonii (listed in this site as blue spur flower) is spreading to a much lesser extent in similar habitats. It grows taller, forming a shrub up to 3 m high, with blue flowers.
This plant is prohibited from propagation, sale and distribution within New Zealand!