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Description
Plectranthus Verticillatus, also known as Swedish ivy or creeping Charlie, is a popular house plant that is native to South Africa. It is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae, and has a trailing growth habit. The plant features small, round, slightly hairy leaves that grow in opposite pairs along its stem. The leaves are typically a vibrant green shade, although some varieties may have a variegated pattern of white, silver, or yellow. The plant blooms in late summer to early fall, producing small, tubular flowers that are typically a shade of pale pink or lavender.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Plectranthus |
| Species | Verticillatus |
Appearance
Plectranthus Verticillatus is a trailing plant that can grow up to 12 inches in height and spread up to 24 inches in width. Its leaves are slightly hairy, round, and grow in opposite pairs along its stem. The plant’s leaves typically measure around 1-2 inches in diameter, and they are typically a vibrant green shade. Some varieties of Plectranthus Verticillatus have variegated leaves with a pattern of white, silver, or yellow. The plant blooms in late summer to early fall, producing small, tubular flowers that are typically a shade of pale pink or lavender.
Care Guide
Plectranthus Verticillatus is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy and happy:Water: Water your Plectranthus Verticillatus when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to water deeply so that the water reaches the plant’s roots.Fertilization: Fertilize your Plectranthus Verticillatus every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.Soil: Plectranthus Verticillatus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A potting mix that is designed for houseplants should work well.Sunlight: Plectranthus Verticillatus prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves.Hardiness Zones: Plectranthus Verticillatus is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in regions with cold winters.
Common Pests & Diseases
Plectranthus Verticillatus is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests from infesting your plant, be sure to keep it clean and free of debris. If you do notice pests, you can try wiping the leaves down with a damp cloth or using an insecticidal soap.The plant is also susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or if the soil does not drain well. To prevent root rot, be sure to water your plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Habitat
Plectranthus Verticillatus is native to South Africa, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, rocky outcrops, and grasslands. The plant has been introduced to other regions of the world as a houseplant or outdoor ornamental.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Plectranthus Verticillatus toxic to pets?A: Plectranthus Verticillatus is non-toxic to pets, making it a great choice for pet owners.Q: Does Plectranthus Verticillatus require a lot of sunlight?A: Plectranthus Verticillatus prefers bright, indirect light, but it can tolerate lower light levels as well.Q: Can Plectranthus Verticillatus be grown outdoors?A: Plectranthus Verticillatus can be grown outdoors in regions with mild winters, but it should be brought indoors during cold weather.Q: How often should I fertilize my Plectranthus Verticillatus?A: Fertilize your Plectranthus Verticillatus every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:
- Plectranthus Scutellarioides (Coleus)
- Plectranthus Amboinicus (Cuban oregano)
- Plectranthus Ciliatus (Speckled Spurflower)
- Plectranthus Barbatus (Indian coleus)
- Plectranthus Forsteri (Silver Shield)
References
- “Plectranthus verticillatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed December 10, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a825.
- “Swedish Ivy Care: Growing and Caring for Plectranthus Verticillatus.” Epic Gardening. Accessed December 10, 2021. https://www.epicgardening.com/swedish-ivy-care/.
- “Plectranthus.” Wikipedia. Accessed December 10, 2021. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plectranthus.
