Plectranthus Saccatus 'Velvet Elvis'

Velvet Elvis Swedish Ivy / Spurflower 'Velvet Elvis'

Botanical Name: Plectranthus saccatus 'Velvet Elvis'
Family: Lamiaceae
Origin: Southern Africa
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub

Overview

A showy shade-lover that thrives in Adelaide and South Australian gardens, ‘Velvet Elvis’ forms soft, velvety mounds of silver-green foliage that light up dim spots. From late summer into autumn, it throws tall spires of rich violet-purple flowers that bees can’t resist. Tough, water-wise once established and easy to shape, it’s perfect for dry shade borders, courtyards and containers.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.6–0.9 m H × 0.8–1.2 m W (rounded, gently spreading)
• Growth Rate: 30-60 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Velvety, silver-green leaves; fresh lime tints on new growth; softly textured year-round
• Flowers: Tall spikes of violet-purple blooms late summer–autumn (Feb–May)
  
• Seasonal Interest: Luminous, evergreen foliage all year; late-season flower show just as many gardens fade; neat winter mound for structure
• Wildlife Value: Attracts Bees, Attracts Butterflies; Good for Pollinators
• Tolerance: Drought-Tolerant (once established), Heat-Tolerant (best with afternoon shade), Wind-Tolerant, Coastal-Tolerant (sheltered), Light frost tolerant; prefers free-draining soils (not heavy, waterlogged clay)
• Planting Density: Shrub borders: 0.6–0.8 m apart (≈ 1.2–1.6 plants/m). Mass plant: 1–2 plants/m²
• Pet Friendly: Generally regarded as non-toxic to pets

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Part shade to morning sun; protect from harsh afternoon summer sun
• Soil: Well-drained sandy/loam soils; improve heavier sites with compost/grit
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Tip-prune after flowering to keep compact and encourage fresh growth; remove spent spikes; mulch in spring; light feed in early spring
• Lifespan: 5-10+ years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate & Mediterranean SA, including coastal Adelaide
• Soil pH: Slightly Acid to Neutral (tolerates mildly alkaline with excellent drainage)

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Dry shade problem-solver under open canopies—pair with clivia, lomandra and native grasses
• Courtyard & container feature—violet blooms and velvety foliage pop in pots near seating areas
• Silver-accent border with westringia, rosemary and salvias for a water-wise SA palette

Why You Will Love It

‘Velvet Elvis’ brings lux, velvety foliage and a late-season burst of purple to the shadier parts of South Australian gardens. It’s forgiving, low-maintenance and pollinator-friendly, delivering designer texture and reliable colour when you need it most.