Family LAMIACEAE
Genus Orthosiphon
Species labiatus
SA Plant Number
Basionym Orthosiphon labiatus

Orthosiphon labiatus is a very hardy, semi-deciduous, fast growing shrub. It forms a much branched rounded shrub with aromatic, heart-shaped leaves.

From mid-summer to early winter it is covered in spikes of pinky-mauve tubular flowers that are irresistible to a number of insect pollinators. Butterflies especially enjoy the flowers.

Pruning it back in early spring encourages flowering. Ideal for smaller spaces, plant in sun or semi-shade.

Plant in well-composted soil, and although extremely drought hardy, watering well will keep it at its best.

Size to 1.5m

Wildlife garden plant: The flowers attract pollinating insects, especially butterflies.

KwaZulu Natal, Northern Province

Natural Habitat Rugged Mountainsides  

Growth Rate: Fast Growing, Evergreen or Deciduous: Semi-Deciduous, Hardiness - Frost: Fairly Hardy, Plant Type: Shrub - Large, Position: Semi-shade, Position: Sun - Full, Soil: Loamy - Compost rich Soil, Soil: Well-drained, Garden Uses: Bird Friendly, Garden Uses: Butterfly Host, Garden Uses: Container Plant, Garden Uses: Cut Flower, Garden Uses: Hedge, Garden Uses: Screen plant - medium, Garden Uses: Small Gardens, Garden Uses: Specimen, Hardiness - Drought: Needs Watering, Flower colour: Pink shades, Garden type: Rocky outcrop and Koppie Gardens, Garden type: Wildlife Garden,

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