Swedish Ivy
plectranthus prostratus
Also known as: ["Creeping Charlie","Spurflower"]
Overview
A trailing, evergreen perennial with fleshy, rounded leaves and small, pale blue or white flowers. Often grown as a houseplant for its attractive foliage and easy care.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Plectranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Plectranthus prostratus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, indirect light area or shaded outdoor garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may stretch in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in low light.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; easy to root from tip or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water; can also use perlite or vermiculite for rooting.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess; remove spent flowers to promote new blooms.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or leggy stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water evenly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the base, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil; allow excess to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and ensure adequate watering; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPlectranthus prostratus is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPlectranthus prostratus is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPlectranthus prostratus is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Plectranthus prostratus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Plectranthus prostratus?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days.
Q: Does Plectranthus prostratus require direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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