Plectranthus ciliatus from South African forest regions, is a groundcover plant, growing to 30-40cm tall, often incorrectly sold under the name of P. oertendahlii. It has an autumn veil of long spires of dainty lilac-tinged flowers across its purple-veined and purple-backed leaves. It will grow in the most uncongenial shady places and can form a dense carpet under trees or shrubs, and is stunning when in full bloom. It associates well with dark purple-leafed foliage plants such as bromeliads, Tradescantia pallida 'Purple Heart' or black taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Black Magic') to echo its darker tints. It makes an excellent carpet beneath autumn-flowering Camellia sasanqua, shrub and cane Begonia and Justicia carnea.
