Petite licorice (Plecostachys serpyllifolia)

Also known as: Cape everlastingflower

The plant you're referring to is Plecostachys serpyllifolia, commonly known as petite licorice. This perennial features a sprawling, mound-like growth with grayish, woolly stems and small, rounded leaves. During its blooming season, it showcases numerous tiny white flowers. Historically, indigenous people of South Africa used it as bedding.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Petite licorice

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

5-10 cm (2-4 inches)

Spread

Variable, can spread extensively as a ground cover

Leaf Color

Green to blue-green

Flower Size

Less than 1 cm (0.4 inches)

Flower Color

White or pale blue

Images of Petite licorice

Quickly Identify Petite licorice

Low-growing shrub, 2-3 feet tall (60-90 cm), spreading up to 4 feet wide (120 cm).

Fine-textured, grey foliage resembling Creeping Thyme, with non-showy cream and pink flowers.

Drought-resistant plant thriving in full sun to light shade environments.

Scientific Classification of Petite licorice

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Plecostachys

Species

Petite licorice

Planting and Growing of Petite licorice

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Petite licorice?

When watering Plecostachys serpyllifolia, ensure that the soil is moistened but not soggy. Water it until you see a bit of excess dripping from the drainage holes. This ensures the plant receives enough moisture reaching the entire root system without sitting in water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Petite licorice? ›

What should I do if my Petite licorice is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Petite licorice? ›

How to save an overwatered Petite licorice? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Petite licorice?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Plecostachys serpyllifolia does best in partial to full sun, receiving around 6 to 8 hours of light daily. This exposure fosters vigorous growth, maintaining health and enhancing the foliage's vibrant hues.

What is the ideal light environment for Plecostachys serpyllifolia? ›

How can I ensure ideal lighting for Plecostachys serpyllifolia? ›

What are the benefits of providing ideal light conditions for Plecostachys serpyllifolia? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Petite licorice?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Plecostachys serpyllifolia is between 65°F and 75°F. This range allows the plant to thrive and grow optimally, ensuring its health and vitality. Maintaining temperatures within this specific range minimizes stress on the plant, promoting better foliage development and resistance to pests and diseases.

What Soil is Best for Petite licorice?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Plecostachys serpyllifolia thrives in well-draining soil, which prevents root rot by allowing excess water to escape easily. This condition ensures the roots have access to oxygen and nutrients without being waterlogged, promoting healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Providing a nutrient-rich soil boosts the plant's growth, ensuring it gets essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This helps in maintaining its lush greenery and enhances resistance against diseases and pests. Soil with moderate fertility is ideal for Plecostachys serpyllifolia, balancing the availability of nutrients and preventing the risk of over-fertilization. This balance aids in consistent growth, and vivid flowering, and sustains its long-term health.

How to Fertilize Petite licorice?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Plecostachys serpyllifolia, the fertilizer amount should be modest. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, to prevent nutrient burn. When applying slow-release granules, use about a tablespoon per square foot to effectively nourish the plant without overwhelming it.

How to Prune Petite licorice?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Begin by identifying and removing dead or yellowed leaves and stems. 2. Trim back any overgrown branches by up to a third, always cutting just above a leaf node. 3. Shape the plant by selectively pruning to maintain a compact, bushy form. 4. Finally, inspect the plant and ensure it has a balanced shape. After pruning, ensure the plant is watered properly and situated in an environment with adequate sunlight. Monitor the plant for any signs of stress or disease, and apply fertilizer as necessary to aid recovery and encourage growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Petite licorice plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring,Late spring

Fill the planting tray with a well-draining potting mix, and lightly press the seeds into the soil. Cover with a thin layer of soil, water gently, and place in a warm location.

Select healthy, non-flowering stems from the parent plant, and cut them just below a node. Remove the lower leaves to expose nodes, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone for better results.

For plant division, carefully unearth the root ball and use a clean knife to split the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each has enough roots. Replant each section immediately in prepared soil.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Petite licorice plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Look for signs such as roots poking out of drainage holes, slowed growth, or the plant appearing top-heavy. These indicate it might be time to repot your Plecostachys serpyllifolia to give it more room and fresh nutrients.

Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has sufficient drainage holes. This prevents waterlogging and promotes healthy root development, accommodating the plant's growth without overwhelming it.

Opt for a well-draining sandy soil mix to prevent root rot, supporting the plant's natural habitat needs. The mix should retain some moisture but not stay soggy, ensuring optimal growth conditions for Plecostachys serpyllifolia.