Verbenaceae
Stachytarpheta urticifolia
Blue Porterweed
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This perennial, semi-woody shrub typically grows up to 1.5-2 metres tall with green, often bullate leaves that have toothed margins. It produces long, slender spikes of continuous, purplish-blue to dark blue flowers with pale centres, which are highly attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. While cultivated as an ornamental, it can readily escape cultivation and become weedy in tropical and subtropical regions.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it suitable for Kilifi's coastal gardens. It can be planted as an attractive ornamental specimen, in mixed borders, or used to form a flowering hedge, effectively attracting local butterflies.
Growing notes
This fast-growing shrub prefers regular watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during establishment. It is best suited for tropical climates and can be pruned freely to maintain desired size and shape. Care should be taken as it has a high reproductive rate and can spread aggressively by seed, potentially becoming weedy.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: plantlust.com, levypreserve.org, cabidigitallibrary.org, wikipedia.org, mygardenlife.com, kew.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.