Plectranthus ciliatus – Speckled Spur-flower

Plectranthus ciliatus is an attractive flowering perennial in the mint family, known for its softly textured foliage and delicate white to light purple-pink flowers. Commonly called Speckled Spur-flower, Eyelash Spur-flower and White Wild Sage, it develops broadly oval to elliptic leaves covered with short, stiff hairs and fine glands.

The foliage has an interesting colour contrast, with the undersides of the leaves often displaying a purple tone. The noticeably hairy leaf margins and shallow paired teeth add further texture and character to the plant.

During the warmer, wetter part of the year, terminal flower spikes develop above the foliage. Small flowers are arranged in compact three-flowered clusters, ranging from white to pale purple-pink. Flowering generally occurs from late summer through winter, with the main display typically peaking in autumn.