Blue Coleus (Plectranthus neochilus)
Also known as Mosquito Plant, because mosquitoes dislike the plant’s strong scent
Characteristics
It belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is native to southern Africa. Here, it blooms almost year-round. Its flowers give off an intense scent, especially when touched. Blue coleus is a plant used in traditional medicine.
Location
Partial shade to full shade, though it isn’t particularly demanding in this regard. Even if some people have to get used to the scent, which is strongly reminiscent of hashish, this plant is a real delight. For some, it’s a delight precisely because of its scent. Blue coleus is easy to multiply and has now beautifully covered several areas here that used to be very rocky and dry. It has no trouble with periods of drought.
How to use
In the traditional medicine of South Africa, Namibia, and Brazil, the plant is used as a medicinal herb. In Europe, it is still relatively unknown. The parts of the plant typically used are the leaves, either fresh or as an infusion; it is suitable as a tea for coughs and bronchitis. It can also be used to treat bloating, flatulence, or nausea.
Its scent is said to keep mosquitoes away. But we have very few mosquitoes at the finca anyway…
On our YouTube channel, you’ll find a video about this plant:
Go directly to the Blue Coleus video
Note
There are hardly any scientific studies on Plectranthus neochilus. The information comes almost exclusively from folk medicine.