Spanish thyme, Cuban oregano, Indian borage, Spanish thyme
plectranthus amboinicus
Also known as: ["Spanish thyme","Cuban oregano","Indian borage","Malaysian borage","Mexican mint","Origanum mexicanum","Plectranthus tomentosus"]
Overview
A succulent, aromatic herb native to Southern Africa, widely cultivated for its culinary and medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["culinary herb","medicinal use","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Plectranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Plectranthus amboinicus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded outdoor garden area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light, protect from intense sun to prevent scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for better light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from air conditioning vents; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove leggy growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/damaged leaves, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes growth and prevents root-bound issues.
Checklist
Check root boundness, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; mix in organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, reduce watering, and increase humidity.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or drying out due to excessive heat and evaporation.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPlectranthus amboinicus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant's essential oils may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large amounts, but this is rare.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPlectranthus amboinicus is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant's essential oils may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large amounts, but this is rare.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Humans
Slightly ToxicPlectranthus amboinicus, commonly known as Cuban oregano, is generally considered safe for culinary use in small amounts. However, ingestion of large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its potent essential oils.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Plectranthus amboinicus safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Plectranthus amboinicus?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Can I use Plectranthus amboinicus in cooking?
A: Yes, its leaves can be used as a substitute for oregano or thyme in many dishes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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