There is a new hybrid Plectranthus making the rounds of the indoor plant sellers lately, and I was wondering if any of the South Africans are growing it or might have more information about the species involved in the cross. It may be going by the cultivar name 'Mona Lavender' in Europe and South Africa, and was apparently part of the work on Plectranthus hybrids at Kirstenbosch and now being marketed world wide by Ball Nurseries of Illinois. The foliage is particularly dark green and stiffer than the similar flowered P. ecklonii, and the flowers seem to be available in a range of lavender to deep purple color, and much longer lasting as individual spikes than P. ecklonii, which I imagine to be one of the probable parents.

I have been interested in the herbaceous Plectranthus for some time due to their mostly late fall into winter bloom period, when not much else is showy here in northern California. Unfortunately, P. ecklonii although growing well for me, is a shy bloomer in my fairly deep shaded garden conditions; although it blooms much better with full sun in coastal gardens where I have planted it out.

Since I have only recently been growing this new 'Cape Angels' hybrid, I am unsure if it will continue blooming under longer day conditions similar to P. zuluensis,(which blooms all year round here), or act more like P. ecklonii, which blooms in late fall only. Anyone here know more about this plant?