Toilet Paper Plant (Plectranthus barbatus)
Regular price $22.95Soft, Fragrant Herb with Multiple Uses
Common Names: Toilet Paper Plant, Blue Spur Flower, Coleus barbatus, Indian Coleus
Family: Lamiaceae
Origin: Africa and India
The Toilet Paper Plant (Plectranthus barbatus), also known as Blue Spur Flower or Indian Coleus, is a versatile herbaceous plant native to Africa and India. This unique plant gets its common name from its large, soft, velvety leaves that can be used as a natural alternative to toilet paper. In addition to its practical use, the Toilet Paper Plant is often grown for its medicinal properties and ornamental beauty. The plant produces vibrant purple or blue flower spikes and has a pleasant, minty fragrance, making it a favorite in herb gardens and landscapes alike.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Medicinal Value
Leaves: The Toilet Paper Plant features large, thick, velvety leaves that are soft to the touch, making them an eco-friendly, biodegradable alternative to toilet paper in emergencies. The leaves also emit a pleasant, minty scent when crushed.
Flowers: The plant produces tall spikes of tubular purple or blue flowers that bloom throughout the growing season, adding vibrant color to the garden.
Growth Habit: The plant grows as a sprawling, bushy perennial, reaching up to 3-6 feet tall, with a similar spread. It is fast-growing and thrives in warm, sunny environments.
Traditional Uses and Medicinal Benefits
Medicinal Uses: In traditional medicine, Plectranthus barbatus has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health issues, including digestive problems, respiratory ailments, and skin conditions. The leaves and roots are rich in compounds such as forskolin, which is used in modern herbal remedies for promoting weight loss, improving heart health, and managing respiratory conditions like asthma.
Ornamental Uses: With its large, soft leaves and striking flower spikes, the Toilet Paper Plant is an excellent addition to ornamental gardens. It provides texture and color, especially when planted in mixed borders or as a backdrop for smaller plants.
Quick Care Guide for Toilet Paper Plant
Plant Type: Perennial Herb
Harvest Season: Year-round (leaves and flowers)
Mature Size: 3-6 feet tall, 3-6 feet wide
Soil & Moisture: Well-draining soil; moderate moisture
Light Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Growth Rate: Fast
Self-fertile: Yes
Zone Hardiness: USDA Zones 9-11
Propagation: Grown from cuttings or seeds.
Growing Guide for Toilet Paper Plant
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: The Toilet Paper Plant thrives in warm, tropical and subtropical climates, making it ideal for USDA zones 9-11. It prefers warm temperatures and will not tolerate frost. In cooler regions, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter months.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil but can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. It grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny location with some afternoon shade in hotter climates. The Toilet Paper Plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil and mix in organic compost to improve moisture retention and fertility.
- Planting Time: Plant in spring or early summer when the soil has warmed.
- Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart to allow for their bushy growth habit.
Watering
- Moderate Moisture: Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once established, the plant is somewhat drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture.
Sunlight and Fertilizing
- Full Sun to Partial Shade: The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Organic compost can also be added to boost soil fertility.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Low Maintenance: Prune the plant regularly to encourage bushier growth and maintain its shape. Deadhead spent flower spikes to promote continuous blooming throughout the season.
- Container Growing: The Toilet Paper Plant grows well in containers, making it suitable for patios or small garden spaces. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has proper drainage.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: The plant is relatively pest-resistant but may occasionally attract aphids or spider mites. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage infestations.
- Diseases: Toilet Paper Plant is resistant to most diseases but may suffer from root rot if grown in poorly draining soil. Ensure proper drainage to prevent fungal issues.
Harvesting Toilet Paper Plant
When to Harvest:
- The leaves can be harvested year-round. Simply snip off the large, soft leaves as needed for practical use or medicinal purposes.
How to Use:
- The leaves can be used as a natural toilet paper alternative in emergencies. They can also be brewed into teas or applied topically for medicinal purposes, such as treating skin irritations or minor cuts.
Health Benefits
The leaves and roots of Plectranthus barbatus are rich in forskolin, a compound that is used in herbal medicine to promote weight loss, improve cardiovascular health, and support respiratory function. The plant’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also make it useful for treating skin conditions and digestive disorders.
