Vicks Plant

Vick's Plants for Sale

Plectranthus tomentosa

Vicks plant, or Succulent Coleus, is a unique and aromatic herb known for its menthol-like fragrance, reminiscent of Vicks Vaporub. This perennial beauty is a perfect rare and unusual addition to your herb garden, bringing both soothing scents and practical benefits. Vicks herb is an essential addition for home gardeners, prized for its ease of cultivation and ability to thrive with minimal effort.

At The Growers Exchange, we’re passionate about providing high-quality, sustainably grown Vicks plants. Handpicked and carefully nurtured, our plants thrive in your garden, giving you a fresh, fragrant herb that can be enjoyed year-round.

History and Heritage

The Vicks plant, or Plectranthus tomentosa, originates in the warm, tropical climates of Africa and Asia, where it has thrived for centuries. The plant’s name reflects its soft, velvety leaves, with "tomentose" referring to the fine hairs that cover them. 

Historically, it has been cultivated for its soothing, aromatic qualities. Modern enthusiasts often compare it to the menthol scent of Vicks Vaporub, which is how it got its unique name. Its introduction to modern herbal gardens outside of its native regions has brought the plant to new heights of popularity, appreciated by casual gardeners and those interested in its holistic benefits.

Appearance and Characteristics

When touched, vicks plants boast soft, velvety leaves that release a cooling, minty fragrance. Their lush, fuzzy, oval-shaped leaves are thick and succulent, allowing the plant to store water efficiently and withstand dry conditions. In the right conditions, they may even produce small, pale purple flowers, adding a charming touch to their lush green appearance.

This evergreen plant grows in compact, trailing mounds with a height of around 12 inches. When touched, the leaves release a powerful menthol fragrance, similar to Vicks Vaporub. The plant typically grows in compact mounds with trailing stems that can extend outward. 

Vicks Plant Uses and Benefits

Vicks plants offer a unique scent, which, along with their medicinal reputation, has made them a popular choice in home gardens and traditional medicine for respiratory relief and general wellness. Some of its uses include:

• Soothing Menthol Fragrance: Its leaves emit a refreshing menthol scent, perfect for clearing the air or creating a calming atmosphere in your home or garden.

• Natural Decongestant: Vicks Plant has traditionally been used to ease nasal congestion, much like its namesake, Vicks Vaporub, by simply inhaling its aroma.

• Aromatic Companion: This fragrant herb can be grown in pots on windowsills or patios to keep the air fresh and fragrant year-round.

• Decorative Accent: The plant’s attractive, trailing habit and fuzzy leaves make it a charming addition to hanging baskets or container gardens.

• Natural Insect Repellent: Its strong aroma is known to repel certain pests, making it a useful companion plant in vegetable and herb gardens.

• Air Purifier: Vicks Plant can help improve indoor air quality by naturally absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen, promoting a healthier environment.

• Medicinal Uses: It has been used in folk medicine for its potential to ease colds, headaches, and skin irritations when its leaves are crushed and applied externally.

Vicks Plant Care, Maintenance, and Growing Tips

Vicks plants are suitable for growing in indoor and outdoor areas. With proper care, you can grow them in a regular pot or place them on hanging baskets for your aesthetics. Growing Vicks Plant is a breeze for gardeners of all levels. Here’s how to cultivate this aromatic herb:

• Location: Vicks Plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, usually in areas within Zones 9 to 12. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but prefers shaded areas in hotter climates.
  

• Planting: Ideal for regular containers or hanging baskets with a recommended size of at least five gallons. Plant your Vicks plant in well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging.
  

• Soil: A well-draining potting mix, like one used for succulents, is essential for this plant. The soil should provide adequate aeration while allowing excess water to escape.
  

• Watering: Vicks Plant is drought-tolerant and only needs watering when the soil dries out. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can cause root rot.
  

• Pruning: Regular pruning keeps the plant from becoming too leggy and promotes fuller growth. Harvest leaves as needed for their aroma or medicinal purposes, ensuring healthy regrowth.
  

• Ecosystem: This plant is a great addition to your garden ecosystem, attracting helpful pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its strong aroma is also a natural repellent for certain garden pests and mosquitoes.
  

• Companion Plants: Vicks Plant pairs well with other aromatic herbs like lavender, rosemary, and thyme. Its pleasant fragrance and pest-repelling properties make it an ideal companion in herb gardens or mixed planters.

Breathe Easy with Vicks Plants from The Growers Exchange

Ready to add the refreshing menthol scent of Vicks plant to your garden? Shop now at The Growers Exchange and enjoy the benefits of this versatile and aromatic herb. It’s the perfect addition to your herb collection: easy to grow, beautiful to look at, and packed with natural goodness!