Silver Spur Flower Coleus argentatus

Silver spurflower is an evergreen perennial subshrub that is native to southwestern Queensland and northeastern New South Wales, Australia. It grows up to 2 to 3 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, with large, velvety, silvery-green leaves and upright spikes of pale, bluish-white flowers. This plant is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). The genus name, Coleus, is from the Greek word koleus, meaning "sheath," and this refers to the stamens and how they are enclosed.  The specific epithet, argentatus, is derived from the Latin word argent, meaning "silver," and atus, meaning "possessing." This references the silver-like leaves. This plant was formerly known as Plectranthus argentathus, but the plant was reclassified in 2019 as Coleus argentathus..  

Bright indirect light or partial shade is preferred by this plant, and it thrives in moist, well-drained, humus rich soil. Water regularly, but avoid soggy wet soil. It prefers temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and 40 to 60% humidity. As a houseplant, misting the leaves or the using a humidifier may be beneficial. It is winter hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 to 11. It may be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. 

The stems of the silver spurflower are silver and densely hairy. The leaves are showy, fuzzy, silvery-green, and measure up to 4 inches long. The flowers appear on an erect spike up to 12 inches long, and each flower is small, tubular, and bluish-white. Blooming occurs from July to August. 

In warm climates, the silver spurflower may be used in a mass planting along borders, foundations, and in containers on patios. In North Carolina, it would be best treated as annual if grown outdoors or as an ornamental indoor houseplant. The silvery-green, velvety foliage could be used as a cutting flower and would be a striking addition to any floral arrangement.. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: This plant is generally pest and disease free. Monitor for scale, mealybugs, whiteflies, aphids, and slugs. Overwatering can result in root rot. Leaf spot can also occur.