One of the showiest and most attractive plectranthus in the garden, Plectranthus ecklonii is a popular garden subject. Mass planting of the blue, white and pink cultivars are very striking. P. ecklonii is best grown in partial shade. It is recommended for gardens where frost is not too severe. In colder climates it can be grown as a container house plant indoors. P. ecklonii is a fast growing pioneer shrub and very suited for shady gardens. It will flower profusely the first season after planting. Plant about 60 cm apart. Prune back hard after flowering during midwinter.

There are three available cultivars.

P. ecklonii 'Medley-Wood' the common garden cultivar with blue flowers. Named after John Medley-Wood who introduced the species into cultivation.

P. ecklonii 'Tommy', with white flowers. Named after Tommy Sardien, head gardener of the Succulent Section at Kirstenbosch for many years.

P. ecklonii 'Erma', with pink flowers, and the leaves and stems are tinged with pink. Named after Erma van Jaarsveld, the author's wife.

P. ecklonii is easily propagated from cuttings or seed. Cuttings can be planted like perennial grass in situ. Cuttings should be about 150-200 mm long, with only the topmost leaves kept. Keep moist and rooting is rapid. Cuttings can also be rooted in sand or other appropriate cutting medium. The best time to take cuttings is spring or summer. Keep them in a shady, but well lit terrain.

Seeds can be planted in a shallow standard seed tray in standard soil. Cover with a thin layer of sand (1-2 mm) and keep moist. Keep in a shady but well lit environment. Germination is rapid and the seedlings can be planted out in individual bags as soon as they are large enough to handle.