Question
I just found out that a Swedish Ivy can bloom.  I have had mine for 2 years and no blooms.  I would love to see it do so.

pot size:  10" hanging pot

light:  west window for afternoon & evening light, mostly filtered through venecian blind

watered when top soil is dry

grows well, very healthy, stong, & green

Thank you.

Answer
Here is what your Swedish ivy (Plectranthus australis) needs to bloom:

1. Lots of very bright light, preferably direct sun early and late in the day and indirect during the midday hours.

2. A tight pot with roots that are quite crowded.

3. Cool winter temps in the 55 to 60 degree range.

The small lavendar flowers appear on a long spike, usually in the summer.

BTW, this plant is in the mint family and is a close relative of Coleus.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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