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 PlectranthusMore 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.

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
More Species in Plectranthus Genus
Plectranthus parviflorus Little Spurflower

Plectranthus verticillatus Swedish Ivy
Plectranthus ernstii

Plectranthus Cerveza N Lime
Plectranthus glabratus Plectranthus Glabratus

Plectranthus madagascariensis Variegated Swedish Ivy

Plectranthus ecklonii South African Tulasi
Plectranthus purpuratus Purple Swedish Ivy
Plectranthus tomentosus
