Plectranthus is the largest South African genus in the mint family (Lamiaceae), with 44 species natural to South Africa, most of which occur on the eastern side of the country. Some species are narrowly endemic occurring only in a very limited area, while others are widespread and very variable and consequently difficult to distinguish. Among the South African members of the genus we have some of the showiest garden plants providing a mass display of colour in late summer and autumn. Colour selections range between pink, purple and white and many shades in-between. Plectranthus are noted for their aromatic leaves when crushed or even brushed against, and the variety of aromas is as diverse as the genus itself.

Plectranthus venteri is a South African endemic species from the Limpopo Province where it can be found growing in Sekhukhuneland and Leolo Mountains. It grows 30 cm tall and forms a rounded shrublet. It has widely dissected aromatic leaves and during autumn it bears mauve to purple flowers. Interesting oils are distilled from this plant.