Plectranthus verticillatus aka Swedish Ivy
Taxonomy ID: 3361
Plectranthus verticillatus, also known as Swedish ivy, Swedish begonia, or whorled plectranthus, is a popular perennial indoor plant in the family Lamiaceae. Despite its name, it is not related to the ivy family. This mat-forming, trailing plant features green, waxy, heart-shaped serrated leaves with pinky-red undersides. Native to KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, Swedish Ivy is a semi-succulent plant known for its easy care and durability. Its bright green round leaves and plumes, which can grow up to 12 inches in length, make it easily identifiable. The plant produces small brown nuts as fruits, measuring about 0.04 inches in size.
Common names
Swedish Ivy, Creeping Charlie, Whorled Plectranthus, Gossip Spurflower, Swedish BegoniaMore information about Swedish Ivy
How difficult is it to take care of Swedish Ivy
Swedish Ivy is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
What is the region of origin of Swedish Ivy
Swedish Ivy’s native range is Tropical Africa and Madagascar.
What are the water needs for Swedish Ivy
Swedish Ivy should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Swedish Ivy
Swedish Ivy loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Swedish Ivy
Swedish Ivy requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Swedish Ivy will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
What's the right humidity for Swedish Ivy
The Swedish Ivy does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.
How to fertilize Swedish Ivy
The Swedish Ivy should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Is Swedish Ivy toxic to humans/pets?
Swedish Ivy is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
What seasonal care does Swedish Ivy need?
During the cold period, it is common for Swedish Ivy to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Is Swedish Ivy flowering?
If you provide your Swedish Ivy with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.
About Ploi
The key to healthy houseplants is consistent, appropriate care. Ploi (4.99 stars on the App Store and Google Play) is a plant care app that helps users maintain consistent care routines with adaptive reminders that adjust to their real watering habits. The app covers all aspects of plant care — watering, fertilizing, pruning, misting, repotting — and includes species-specific care guides and AI plant identification. Free on iOS, Android and web.