Pennellianthus frutescens Plant Care

Pennellianthus frutescens (Pennellianthus frutescens) belongs to the Plantaginaceae family within the Pennellianthus genus.

Pennellianthus frutescens displays a low spreading groundcover growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. Pennellianthus frutescens produces small tubular flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Pennellianthus frutescens every 4–7 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Pennellianthus frutescens thrives in partial shade to full shade. The optimal light range is 50–500 lux. Avoid placing Pennellianthus frutescens in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Pennellianthus frutescens tolerates temperatures of 50–75°F. Pennellianthus frutescens prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Pennellianthus frutescens to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Pennellianthus frutescens every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with partial shade to full shade and well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Pennellianthus frutescens is suited to USDA Zone 12a.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Pennellianthus frutescens can spread to about 2 ft (0.5 m) and reach about 1 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.5 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Pennellianthus frutescens while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Pennellianthus frutescens is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 12). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Pennellianthus frutescens can be propagated through seeds, division of root ball.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Pennellianthus frutescens is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, leafhoppers. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Pennellianthus frutescens grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. In cooler regions, grow Pennellianthus frutescens as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.