Swedish ivy, creeping Charlie, Swedish begonia
plectranthus verticillatus
Also known as: ["Swedish ivy","creeping Charlie","Swedish begonia"]
Overview
A trailing, evergreen perennial with rounded, scalloped leaves and clusters of small, pale lavender flowers. Native to South Africa, it is popular as a houseplant for its easy care and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Plectranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Plectranthus verticillatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 1–2 weeks, or as needed 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 year-round 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 lower light but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to avoid 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 intense 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, 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; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain humidity; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; easily rooted from tip or section cuttings.
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 conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix like peat and perlite, or water propagation in a jar.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, misting spray bottle.
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; shear for shaping.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess; remove spent flowers to promote new blooms.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; 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 root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
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 for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of root rot due to reduced uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; soil dries out quickly; increased pest susceptibility.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
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
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Plectranthus verticillatus. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Plectranthus verticillatus may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPlectranthus verticillatus contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant is not highly toxic but can lead to discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Plectranthus verticillatus 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, typically every 1-2 weeks depending on conditions.
Q: Does Swedish ivy flower indoors?
A: Yes, it produces small lavender flowers, especially in bright indirect light and cooler temperatures.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to bright indire |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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