Plectranthus socotranus

This Plectranthus species is found only on the desert island of Socotra, located off the coast of Yemen. The island's isolation, due to its location and surrounding ocean currents, results in a very high number of unique plants and animals. More than a third of the 800 plant species found there are endemic to Socotra, one of which is Plectranthus socotranus .

Plectranthus socotranus is a miniature, creeping species that reaches a height of only 10 to 15 cm and has small, approximately 1 cm long, highly succulent leaves. The leaves are velvety and have a very slightly serrated edge. It strongly resembles commonly offered succulents such as the jade plant ( Crassula ovata )...until you rub its leaves! Like most Plectranthus , Plectranthus socotranus emits a pleasantly spicy, fresh fragrance. The flowers of this species also distinguish it from similar-looking succulents. As is typical for members of the mint family (Lamiaceae), they are large, purple tubular flowers borne on approximately 20 cm long inflorescences above the plant.

A truly exceptional rarity for any Plectranthus or succulent collection, and not even difficult to care for.