Plectranthus comosus variegata

Plectranthus comosus variegata
Lamiaceae
Kathy Echols, Martinez

Two or three branches about 2 feet long were brought in for us to see. This is one of the largest members of the genus, reaching 8 to 10 feet in height as a shrub under trees. The 2 to 3 inch notched oval leaves have a creamy white border and when in bloom the ends of the branches have a raceme of purple mint-like flowers. The genus is widely scattered in the southern hemisphere in a number of habitats and size of plants. Very small succulent species are found in southern Africa as well as creeping ground covers and 2 to 3 foot high shrubs. A number have aromatic foliage, some rank, others pleasant. As coleus is now considered part of this genus, foliage is often a feature. The flowers can be true blue, lavender, purple, pink or white, depending on the species. Australian species are often grown. The species shown is not listed in references I have.