Lemon-Scented Plant Identification: Plectranthus Australis

Sabina seeks a plant known as "lemon-scented charlie" (Plectranthus australis) with trailing habit, but only finds "Swedish ivy" online. Her local greenhouse source is retiring.

Name Clarification

Plectranthus australis is indeed commonly called Swedish ivy or Swedish begonia. "Lemon-scented charlie" appears to be a regional or colloquial name for the same plant. The lemon scent comes from crushing the leaves.

Sourcing Strategies

• Ask your retiring grower for their wholesale source—they may share it.
• Search for "Plectranthus australis," "Swedish ivy," or "Creeping Charlie" (though true Creeping Charlie is Glechoma hederacea).
• Australian source found: shaman-australis.com.au (may ship internationally).
• Consider propagating from your existing plant before the source disappears.

Care Notes

Grows well indoors year-round in hanging baskets. Prefers bright indirect light, regular watering when top soil dries, and occasional pinching to maintain fullness. Easy to root from stem cuttings in water or moist soil.