Family: Lamiaceae

The 350 species of herbaceous plants and shrubs in this genus, which is related to Coleus, are found in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Most species have toothed, aromatic foliage and attractive, small flowers. The plant stems are square in section.

Species

P. amboinicus, five spice, grows up to 30 cm (12 in) high. It has very aromatic, fleshy leaves, covered in fine hairs, and hears mauve-blue flowers on spikes. This species has long been cultivated for culinary use in India, Southeast Asia and tropical America.

P. argentatus has silvery green, very furry leaves and mauve-blue flowers. It is fast growing and makes a good groundcover for semi-shaded areas.

P. australis grows 60-80 cm (24-32 in) high, with fleshy leaves and purple flowers.

P. oertendahlii, candle plant, has attractive foliage, deep green above and purple-crimson beneath. Sprays of pale pink to mauve flowers appear in early autumn. This species is useful as a groundcover and also for hanging baskets.

Cultivation

Outside the tropics, grow in an intermediate to warn greenhouse or conservatory in pots of soil-based potting compost. Shade plants from direct sun, but ensure good light. Propagate from cuttings prepared from the stem tips, in spring or summer, or from seed sown as soon as available. Provide bottom heat for both.

Climate

Tropical.