Buy Plectranthus Caninus (Dogsbane) 100mm Pot

Aromatic Foliage | Easy Care | Ideal for Pots and Garden Borders

Plectranthus caninus, commonly known as the Scaredy Cat Plant or Dogsbane, is a hardy ornamental perennial grown for its soft, aromatic foliage and compact growth habit. Native to Africa, this easy-care plant is well suited to Australian gardens, where it performs well in garden beds, borders, patios, and containers.

The plant forms a neat mound of green to grey-green leaves with softly scalloped edges and a velvety texture. When the foliage is brushed or crushed, it releases a strong musky aroma. During the warmer months, it may also produce small blue to purple flowers that attract bees and other beneficial pollinators.

Plectranthus caninus is often planted around garden beds, pathways, patios, and outdoor living areas. While it is widely known as the "Scaredy Cat Plant," the effectiveness of its scent in repelling cats, dogs, or other animals varies and is not guaranteed.

Why Grow Plectranthus caninus?

This plant is valued for its attractive foliage, compact habit, and ability to thrive with very little maintenance. It grows quickly, tolerates dry conditions once established, and can be used as a border plant, ground cover, or feature in decorative pots.

Its soft leaves provide year-round colour and texture, while the seasonal flowers add extra interest during the growing season. It is also a great choice for gardeners looking for drought-tolerant plants that perform well in Australia's climate.

Plant Details

• Botanical Name: Plectranthus caninus
• Common Names: Scaredy Cat Plant, Dogsbane
• Plant Family: Lamiaceae
• Plant Type: Evergreen perennial
• Growth Habit: Compact, spreading mound
• Foliage Colour: Green to grey-green
• Flower Colour: Blue to purple
• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Water: Water when the soil becomes dry
• Soil: Well-draining garden or potting mix
• Hardiness: Protect from heavy frost
• Uses: Garden borders, pots, pathways, courtyards, patios, and ground cover
• Pot Size: 100mm

Growing and Caring for Plectranthus caninus

Grow this plant in a sunny or partly shaded position with free-draining soil. Water regularly while the plant is becoming established, then reduce watering once it is growing well. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering.

Light pruning throughout the year will encourage bushier growth and help maintain a tidy shape. In cooler regions, protect the plant from frost or grow it in a container that can be moved to a sheltered location during winter.

Perfect For

• Garden borders
• Decorative pots and containers
• Patios and courtyards
• Pathway edging
• Water-wise gardens
• Low-maintenance landscapes

Plant Size and Packaging Information

The plant supplied comes in a 100mm diameter nursery pot.

Plants are shipped bare rooted to help ensure safe delivery.

The product images show a representative example of the plant you will receive. Every Plectranthus caninus grows naturally, so leaf size, colour, flowering, and overall appearance may vary slightly.

FAQ

Is Plectranthus caninus easy to grow?

Yes. It is a hardy, beginner-friendly plant that requires very little maintenance once established.

Does the Scaredy Cat Plant really repel cats and dogs?

The plant is known for its strong aromatic foliage, and many gardeners grow it for this purpose. However, results can vary depending on the animal and the environment, so it should not be relied upon as a guaranteed repellent.

Can it be grown in pots?

Yes. It grows very well in containers with good drainage and plenty of sunlight.

Does it flower?

Yes. Mature plants produce small blue to purple flowers during the warmer months.

Please note  — NT, TAS, WA customers: please contact us before placing your order due to additional quarantine charges associated with these locations.
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