Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus): Glossy Trailing Houseplant

Swedish ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus), also called Swedish begonia or whorled plectranthus, is a fast-growing, trailing perennial with glossy, scalloped, rounded leaves (often with purple undersides) on square stems. It produces spikes of small, white or pale purple flowers intermittently.

Habit

Trails 2–3 feet or more. Very easy to grow and propagate. Forms a dense mat if not supported. Excellent in hanging baskets, mixed containers, and as a ground cover in frost-free shade.

Culture

Bright, indirect light; well-drained soil. Allow top inch to dry between waterings. Pinch to encourage bushiness. Fertilize monthly. Tender perennial (zones 10–11); classic houseplant everywhere.

Taxonomy

• Family: Lamiaceae
• Genus: Plectranthus
• Species: verticillatus