Coleus australis, commonly known as little spurflower or cockspur flower, is a perennial herb that is native to open woodlands and forest edges in Australia. It typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and spreads to a similar width. This plant is characterized by its square stems and vibrant foliage, which can range in color from green to purple, often with intricate patterns. The small blue to violet flowers are less showy and appear in summer. Coleus australis is appreciated for its colorful leaves and is often used in ornamental plantings, container gardens, and as a ground cover.

In cultivation, little spurflower thrives in part shade to full sun conditions and prefers well-drained soil with regular watering. It is relatively low maintenance but benefits from occasional pruning to encourage bushier growth. While it is not typically prone to serious diseases or pests, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Gardeners should be cautious about its potential invasiveness when grown outside its native range, as it can spread rapidly and outcompete native vegetation.CC BY-SA 4.0