Family: Lamiaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Coleus neochilus, commonly known as spur flower, is a low-growing aromatic succulent herb in the mint family native to southern tropical and southern Africa. It has fleshy gray-green leaves covered in soft hairs and produces spikes of bluish to purple flowers that attract pollinators. This species is widely cultivated as an ornamental groundcover because of its drought tolerance, ease of growth, and ability to thrive in hot, dry conditions. It is also sometimes planted around homes and gardens because its strong scent is believed to help deter pests and animals.

Risks & Threats
In Hawaiʻi, Coleus neochilus is naturalized on Oʻahu and possesses traits that are cause for concern in tropical island ecosystems. It spreads readily from stem fragments and garden waste, forms dense mats that can outcompete other vegetation, and thrives in disturbed environments and dry habitats. Its ability to establish quickly and persist under harsh conditions increases the risk of further spread into natural areas, where it could negatively impact native plants and ecological processes. Because this species may detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems, Plant Pono recommends choosing a low-risk or native alternative whenever suitable alternatives are available.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized in Hawaii, Australia, and Brazil
  
• Congeneric weed (P. comosus) is a declared invader
  
• Unpalatable to deer (skunky scent)
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Tolerates wide range of soils
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Reproduces vegetatively (stems root easily)
  
• Dispersed intentionally by people (ornamental)
  
• Minimum generation time = 1 year

Low Risk Traits:

• Not reported as a weed (garden, agricultural, or environmental)
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• No allelopathy, parasitism, or toxicity
  
• No fire hazard (succulent leaves)
  
• No prolific seed production or persistent seed bank
  
• No wind, water, bird, or animal dispersal