Swedish ivy, creeping Charlie, Swedish begonia
plectranthus ornatus
Also known as: ["Swedish ivy","creeping Charlie","Swedish begonia"]
Overview
A trailing, evergreen perennial with soft, scalloped leaves and clusters of small, pale blue or white flowers. Native to southern Africa, it is popular as a houseplant for its easy care and trailing habit.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","air purifying"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Plectranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Plectranthus ornatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- 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 6–8 weeks during growing season; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- 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 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
partial shade to bright indirect light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
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; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to avoid burning roots; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or moist soil.
- Keep warm and humid.
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 potting mix or water; perlite or sand can improve drainage.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting powder or gel is recommended for faster results.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks in water; soil propagation may take slightly longer.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, plastic wrap (for humidity).
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 to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to maintain compact shape.
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 in early morning; remove dead or damaged growth; shape as desired.
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; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; inspect roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve 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 browning leaf edges in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop; frost is lethal.
Solution: Keep away from drafty windows or doors; provide a warm, humid microclimate; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPlectranthus ornatus is not known to be toxic to cats. It is generally considered safe for feline exposure.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPlectranthus ornatus is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is generally considered safe for canine exposure.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPlectranthus ornatus is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Plectranthus ornatus?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Plectranthus ornatus need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Direct sunlight may scorch the leaves.
Q: Can Plectranthus ornatus be propagated easily?
A: Yes, it can be propagated easily from stem cuttings placed in water or moist soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to bright indire |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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