Plectranthus verticillatus aka Swedish Ivy

Plectranthus verticillatus, known as Swedish ivy, belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Its native range runs from southern Mozambique to South Africa. It grows in a subtropical climate and is not native to Britain or Ireland. Kew classes it as a subshrub. The RHS describes it as an evergreen perennial with trailing growth. Its low form makes it a foliage plant for beds and pots.

The plant spreads across the ground to form a low mat. It reaches about 0.3 feet [0.1 metres] in height. Its mature spread ranges from 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metres]. The RHS gives one to two years as its time to maturity. Rounded leaves have coarse teeth along their edges and purple undersides. The plant keeps its leaves throughout the year. Pruning young plants helps them form bushier growth, rather than leaving their trailing shape unchecked.

White flowers appear in summer, with purple dots on each bloom. They grow in loose spikes above the low mat of leaves. Each flower measures about 0.07 feet [0.02 metres] long. The leaves provide year-round interest, while the blooms add a summer display. The RHS recommends this species for foliage use in beds. It also lists patios and containers as suitable places to grow it.

Choose partial shade and a sheltered site for outdoor planting. The RHS lists east-, west-, and south-facing sites as suitable aspects. Loam and sandy soils both suit this plant. Soil can be acid, neutral, or alkaline, but must drain well. The RHS accepts moist, well-drained soil as well as well-drained conditions. Plants can also grow under glass, with shade from hot sun. Its UK hardiness rating is H2, so it cannot survive freezing. This rating covers low temperatures in the range of 1–5°C.

The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems for this species. It describes the plant as generally free of both. Growers can raise new plants from ripe seed at 19–24°C. Stem-tip cuttings offer another way to make new plants throughout the year. These methods support its use in seasonal beds and containers. Keep the need for frost protection in mind when choosing its place.