Plant Profile: Plectranthus 'Mona Lavender'

Mona Lavender is a hybrid herbaceous perennial belonging to the mint family, originating from two southern African species. This compact shrub typically grows to a height and width of 1 to 2 feet. In North Carolina, it is commonly cultivated as a houseplant. The plant features distinctive lavender flowers with two lips, adorned with purple speckles, which bloom on spikes of purple stems. Flowering begins in the fall as daylight decreases and often continues into the spring. Its glossy dark green leaves, which have striking purple undersides, add to its ornamental appeal. To encourage a fuller, rounded shape, pinch back the stems.

Mona Lavender thrives in partial shade and prefers soil that is rich in organic matter, consistently moist, and well-draining. It can be grown indoors or placed outside in the spring, where it can bask in morning sunlight to full shade, allowing you to appreciate both its blooms and decorative foliage.