Family: Lamiaceae
Origin, Description & Uses
Plectranthus ciliatus, commonly known as speckled spur-flower, eyelash spur-flower, or white wild sage, is a flowering perennial native to southern Africa. This attractive ornamental plant is valued for its soft, trailing foliage, scalloped leaves, and spikes of pale lavender to white flowers. It is commonly grown as a groundcover, hanging basket plant, or shade garden ornamental because of its fast growth and tolerance of a variety of garden conditions. The species is especially popular in tropical and subtropical landscapes, where it is appreciated for its decorative foliage and ability to thrive in moist, partially shaded environments.
Risks & Threats
Although Plectranthus ciliatus is not currently known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it possesses traits that raise concern for tropical island ecosystems. The species grows vigorously, spreads readily from stem fragments, and can form dense groundcover that may suppress surrounding vegetation. In warm, wet climates similar to Hawaiʻi, these characteristics could allow it to escape cultivation and compete with native plants in disturbed or natural areas. Because island ecosystems are especially vulnerable to invasive species, caution is recommended when planting this species. Choosing a low risk or native alternative is encouraged whenever suitable alternatives are available.
High Risk Traits:
- Naturalized in tropical/subtropical regions
- Environmental weed
- Congeneric weed
- Unpalatable to grazers
- Shade tolerant
- Climbing or smothering growth habit
- Produces viable seed
- Reproduces vegetatively
- Dispersed intentionally by people
- Tolerates mutilation, cultivation, or fire
Low Risk Traits:
- Not self-compatible
- No wind, water, bird, or external animal dispersal
- No seed survival through animal guts
- Well controlled by herbicides
