Ocimum labiatum

Also Known As

Orthosiphon labiatus
Pink Cat's Whiskers
Pink Sage
Pink Surprise Bush
Shell Bush

Plant type

shrub, perennial

size

H: 2'-5'
W: 2'-5'

planting zones

9b-12

More Options

Ocimum labiatum plant details

Ocimum labiatum is a broadleaf evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial shrub with green foliage. In fall, spring and summer lavender and pink flowers emerge. Attracts bees and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - dappled shade and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in average, gritty and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Ocimum labiatum

Plant type: perennial shrub
Plant family: lamiaceae
Foliage: evergreen or semi-evergreen green
Mature size: 2 FT - 5 FT - wide, 2 FT - 5 FT - tall
Flowers: lavender and pink blooms in fall, spring and summer
Uses: container plant, fragrant, heart-shaped leaves, long-blooming, showy, tropical-looking

GROWING CONDITIONS for Ocimum labiatum

USDA Zones: 9b - 12
Sun exposure: sun - dappled shade
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, heat
Soil needs: average, gritty and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

PINK CAT WHISKERS - PINK SAGE - SHELL BUSH - PINK SURPRISE - A mounding plant with fragrant mint like heart shaped foliage decked with salvia like blooms of lavender and pink from spring thru frost. Likes morning sun and protection from hot midday sun. Hardy in zone 9-11 where it is a perennial or woody ground cover. Once established, it is drought tolerant. Hummingbirds and butterflies love it.

By: Accents for Home and Garden

The real surprise is how much this perennial blooms! Spikes of lavender and pink salvia like blooms are born from spring to frost. Fragrant mint-like foliage covers this mounding shrub-like tropical perennial. Great for Hummingbirds.