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

More 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

To ensure optimal growth, the Swedish Ivy prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

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.
Cat approves this plant

Is Swedish Ivy toxic to humans/pets?

Swedish Ivy is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

What's the dormancy for Swedish Ivy

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.

More info:
Wikipedia