Plectranthus madagascariensis is a robust perennial herb. It is often planted as a groundcover in sunny or semi-shaded garden spots. Small cuttings of this plant will grow quite easily in average and varied conditions.

Many of the South African Plectranthus species have fragrant leaves. Several of them also serve in indigenous medicines for treating coughs and other chest complaints. They belong to the mint or Lamiaceae family.

The leaves of P. madagascariensis have distinctive white or variegated patches, mainly around the toothed edges. The leaf surface is markedly uneven in association with the net veining. Leaves are opposite, slightly fleshy and ovate, but variable in shape. Plants with white parts of variegated leaves are often sought after by gardeners. Only the green leaf parts contain chlorophyll and can produce starch in photosynthesis (http://elephantseyegarden.blogspot.com and Wikipedia).