Plectranthus graveolens
Bush Basil or Native Coleus
A$9.00
Plectranthus graveolens, commonly known as Bush Basil or Native Coleus, is a hardy Australian native shrub prized for its highly aromatic, velvety foliage. It is a versatile "bush tucker" plant whose leaves carry a complex scent reminiscent of basil, mint, and sage.
🌿 Key Features
Appearance: A soft-wooded shrub growing up to 1.5m tall and 2m wide.
Foliage: Broad, heart-shaped green leaves covered in fine, sticky hairs that emit a strong fragrance when touched.
Flowers: Produces slender spikes of tiny purple or blue flowers, primarily in spring and summer, which are highly attractive to native bees.
Native Habitat: Found in rocky mountain areas and rainforest margins from Cape York, Queensland down to New South Wales.
🍳 Culinary & Traditional Uses
Mediterranean Cooking: Ideal for pesto, pasta sauces, and as a pizza topping.
Herbal Blends: Often called "Five Spice Plant"; the leaves can be used fresh or dried for teas and seasoning.
Traditional Medicine: Historically used by First Peoples for ceremonial purposes and to treat ailments like coughs and colds.
🪴 Growing Tips
Position: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Prefers well-draining soil; it is exceptionally hardy and can grow in shallow, rocky crevices.
Maintenance: Responds well to heavy pruning to maintain a compact, bushy shape and prevent it from becoming "scraggly".
Resilience: Once established, it is drought-tolerant and salt-spray resistant, though it can be frost-tender
Available in 14 cm pot
