Swedish ivy, creeping Charlie, Swedish begonia
plectranthus hadiensis
Also known as: ["Plectranthus verticillatus","Plectranthus nummularius"]
Overview
A trailing, evergreen perennial with fleshy, ovate leaves and small, pale blue or white flowers. Native to southern Africa, it is widely cultivated as a houseplant for its attractive foliage and ease of care.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","pet-friendly"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Plectranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Plectranthus hadiensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°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 for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size.
- 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 some direct morning sun but prefers shade from harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; move outdoors in shade during summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain moderate temperatures year-round; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
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; leaf cuttings also viable but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water for rooting.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth and remove leggy stems; maintain shape and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in active growth phase; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
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 thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or leaf drop in cold; stunted growth or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
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 hadiensis is not toxic to cats. The plant is considered safe for feline ingestion and contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPlectranthus hadiensis is not toxic to dogs. The plant is considered safe for canine ingestion and contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPlectranthus hadiensis, commonly known as the 'Swedish ivy,' is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for ingestion and contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Plectranthus hadiensis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Plectranthus hadiensis?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Plectranthus hadiensis be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown outdoors in shaded or partially shaded areas, but it is primarily cultivated as an indoor plant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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