How to Grow Reflexa
iNaturalist
Reflexa
Plectranthus reflexus
herbReflexa is a tender perennial herb in the mint family, native to South Africa, known for its soft, velvety foliage and attractive cascading growth habit. The plant features aromatic, heart-shaped leaves with fuzzy texture and produces delicate purple or lavender flowers. It is primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant and can be used fresh or dried in culinary applications.
When should you plant Reflexa in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Reflexa timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Reflexa
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Reflexa
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Reflexa dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; grow indoors or in containers in cooler climates
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Get my Reflexa timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with first true leaves emerging, fuzzy texture beginning to show
Keep soil consistently moist. Provide bright, indirect light. Maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F).
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant develops more stems and heart-shaped leaves with characteristic velvety texture; cascading growth pattern becomes apparent
Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Water regularly. Fertilize bi-weekly with dilute balanced fertilizer.
Flowering
6-10 weeksSmall purple, lavender, or pink flowers appear at stem tips; foliage remains lush and aromatic
Continue regular watering and feeding. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Provide good air circulation.
Mature Plant
Ongoing, 6+ months per seasonFull cascading form with abundant foliage and continuous flowers; plant reaches desired size for hanging baskets or containers
Prune as needed to maintain shape. Can be pinched back to rejuvenate. Overwintering indoors in cold climates.
Dormancy/Rest
2-3 months (winter)Growth slows significantly in winter; foliage may thin slightly
Reduce watering frequency. Lower fertilization. Maintain minimum 50°F temperature. Provide adequate light.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; spray with water or neem oil. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Remove with isopropyl alcohol on cotton swab. Apply insecticidal soap if severe.
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Spray undersides of leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Use yellow sticky traps.
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Scrape off manually or treat with horticultural oil or neem oil spray.
Uses
Herbal Tea & Beverages
CulinaryFresh or dried leaves make a pleasant, aromatic herbal tea with a mild minty flavor. Can be combined with other herbs for specialty tea blends. [source]
Culinary Seasoning
CulinaryFresh leaves add subtle mint-like flavor to salads, desserts, beverages, and garnishes. Dried leaves can be used as a seasoning herb. [source]
Decorative Houseplant
OrnamentalThe soft, velvety foliage and cascading growth habit make Reflexa ideal for hanging baskets, container gardens, and indoor plant displays. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalIn traditional medicine systems, Plectranthus species have been used to support digestive health and general wellness. Used as a folk remedy in several cultures. [source]
Air Purification & Aroma
HouseholdThe aromatic foliage releases pleasant scent when brushed against, naturally freshening indoor spaces. Adds greenery and natural fragrance to homes. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Pinch leaves and stem tips regularly to encourage bushier growth; these pinched portions can be used fresh or dried. Best flavor when harvested in morning after dew dries. For drying, cut stems just before flowering and hang upside down in warm, dark location. Can be harvested continuously without harming the plant.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Reflexa is also known as 'Swedish Ivy' or 'Minty Coleus' in some regions, though it is not actually ivy and is native to South Africa, not Sweden.
- 🌱 The fuzzy, velvety texture of Reflexa leaves is due to fine hair-like structures called trichomes, which help the plant reduce water loss in its native South African habitat.
- 🌱 Plectranthus reflexus is part of a large genus with over 350 species, many of which are aromatic and traditionally used in African and Asian cuisines and medicines.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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