Plectranthus oertendahlii is easy to grow, but needs to be renewed regularly to keep it vigorous. Grow the plants in the shade with regular water in summer if dry, but be careful not to over-water. If the plants receive too much light, the leaves turn yellow and the silver markings are not as prominent. Plant them in well-composted, loamy soil that is well drained. Choose a spot in the garden without competition from other stronger growing groundcovers and shrubs. Combine them with interesting shade lovers such as Clivia gardenii, Veltheimia bracteata, Streptocarpus formosus and Encephalartos villosus.

As mentioned, it is also lovely in a hanging basket and pots inside or outside the house. Prune the plants back after flowering to encourage new strong growth in spring.

Propagate new plants from seed or cuttings. Cuttings are easy to root and can be made throughout the year by tip cuttings placed into sand that is kept moist. At Kirstenbosch, we usually make the Plectranthus cuttings in early summer (November) to produce lovely full plants ready for display when they flower in autumn. Sow seeds in spring or early summer (October-November) in a well-drained medium. Germination is usually within three weeks.

The plants respond well to organic fertilizers during the summer growing season.

Most Plectranthus species are is affected by microscopic eelworm or nematodes which attack the roots and prevent the uptake of water and nutrients. Diseased roots will be swollen and knobbly. Make new clean plants from cuttings and replace the soil of pots and hanging baskets.