Swedish ivy, creeping Charlie, velvet plant
plectranthus parviflorus
Also known as: ["Coleus parviflorus","Plectranthus verticillatus"]
Overview
A trailing, evergreen perennial with soft, velvety leaves and small, pale blue or lavender flowers. Native to southern Africa, it is often grown as a houseplant or ground cover.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","pet-friendly"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Plectranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Plectranthus parviflorus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed in warm climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
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 to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered sunlight or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use a mix designed for succulents or cacti if possible; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or soil.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove leggy growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or damaged stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; mix in organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPlectranthus parviflorus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPlectranthus parviflorus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPlectranthus parviflorus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in culinary and medicinal applications without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Plectranthus parviflorus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Swedish ivy?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Plectranthus parviflorus 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 full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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