Slender-flowered Spurflower (Plectranthus tenuiflorus)

Slender-flowered Spurflower

Plectranthus tenuiflorus

Delicate, slender blooms add soft texture to rock gardens. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Slender-flowered Spurflower.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade, avoid intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent foliage damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, ovate to lanceolate leaves with slightly serrated margins; soft, hairy texture
  • Flower: Slender, tubular pale lavender to white blooms arranged in terminal racemes
  • Stem: Trailing, succulent-like stems with green to purplish tinge
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Pinch back stem tips regularly to encourage bushier, compact growth
  • Remove spent flower spikes to promote extended blooming
  • Trim leggy stems in early spring to maintain a neat mat-forming habit
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover for rock gardens, container plant for patios, and indoor windowsill decoration