PYCNOSTACHYS (Pycno'stachys)

DESCRIPTION: These frost-tender, bushy perennials are natives to tropical Africa and belong to the Mint family, Labiatae. P. dawei is a bushy plant, growing from 4 to 5 feet high with a spread of 1 to 3 feet. This vigorous-growing plant has narrow, lance-shaped, serrated leaves. They are from 5 to 12 inches in length and green tinged with red beneath. Its tubular, 2-lipped, cobault blue flowers are produced in short whorled spikes, from winter to spring.

POTTING: These plants need a minimum temperature of 60 degrees. In cool climates, grow them indoors, in moist soil consisting of two parts loam and one part leaf mold, with a bit of decayed manure and liberal amount of sand added. Apply plenty of water while they are in active growth.

PROPAGATION: Stem cuttings can be used to increase these plants in early summer. Side shoots, 2 inches in length are detached, the lower half of leaves are removed, and the stem is cut cleanly across just below the bottom joint. Place the cuttings in a propagating case and once they've formed roots, they are potted individually in 3-inch pots and subsequently, in larger ones. After the plants have recovered from their first potting, pinch the tips of the main shoots to encourage bushy growth. The following side shoots are pinched after the second repotting. Seeds may also be sown in well-drained pots of sandy soil, in the spring. Immerse the pot in water to moisten the soil, and place a pane of glass over the container. Set the pots in a greenhouse and each morning wipe off the underside of the glass. When the seedlings appear, remove the glass and transplant to 3-inch pots. Don't apply water after repotting until they are well-rooted, after which the soil is kept moist. When they are established in the final pots, biweekly applications of liquid fertilizer are given.

VARIETIES: P. dawei; P. urticifolia.

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