Troubleshooting
Zulu Spurflower problems — and how to fix them
Zulu Spurflower (Plectranthus zuluensis) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Frost damage
Even a light frost will blacken and kill the soft stems; in the UK bring plants under glass by mid-October and do not return them outdoors until all frost risk has passed in late spring.
Leggy growth in low light
Despite tolerating shade, severely low light levels cause etiolated, weak stems that cannot support the flower racemes; trim back by one-third in late winter and move to a brighter sheltered position.
Prevent zulu spurflower problems before they start
Most zulu spurflower issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Zulu Spurflower problems — FAQ
Why is my zulu spurflower frost damage?
Even a light frost will blacken and kill the soft stems; in the UK bring plants under glass by mid-October and do not return them outdoors until all frost risk has passed in late spring.
Why is my zulu spurflower leggy growth in low light?
Despite tolerating shade, severely low light levels cause etiolated, weak stems that cannot support the flower racemes; trim back by one-third in late winter and move to a brighter sheltered position.