Tuesday, 1 December 2015

Coleus Canina - also known as Scaredy Cat Plant

Plectranthus caninus is a herb in the mint family Lamiaceae, native to east Africa and southern Asia. Under the name "Coleus canina", it is sold and marketed as a natural repellent to cats and dogs (labeled as "Scaredy Cat Plant" and "Piss-off plant"). These plants root easily from cuttings or from just touching the ground. They like full sun, though will grow in shade. They are drought resistant. They are not hardy and need protection from frost. 



Both the leaves and flowers of the plant are slightly sticky to the touch, and have a mild odour not unlike that of marijuana or dog urine.
They are a nice plant with pretty blue flowers in the summer. They grow and spread about 40cm at their peak after 2 years














Most cats at least try to avoid Scaredy Cat, with many giving it a wide berth . This plant is particularly helpful if grown around the area where your cat, or more likely the neighbour's cat, likes to sun or go for a poo. 



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