Plectranthus forsteri
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Plectranthus forsteri

Swedish-ivy · Cuban oregano · VARIGATED SWEDISH IVY

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: partial_sun Toxicity: low
Temperature
20–37 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 9–12
Click count
193
Observations
295

Care Guide

💧 Water

Swedish ivy thrives in humid environments and prefers well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging. It should be watered every 1 to 2 weeks because it requires balanced moisture, making it an excellent choice for indoor cultivation as an evergreen plant.

☀️ Light Partial sun

Swedish ivy does best in locations that receive moderate, filtered light for much of the day and can tolerate stronger sun. Seasonal changes may require moving it to adjust its light exposure. Too little sunlight can stunt its growth or make the foliage less vibrant.

Ideal: Partial sun
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C

Swedish ivy is native to climates with temperatures between 68 and 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). It does best in moderate surroundings and does not tolerate extreme cold or heat. To ensure it flourishes, keep indoor conditions that match this temperature range throughout the year.

Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

The best time to fertilize a Swedish ivy is in early spring, as it comes out of dormancy and begins active growth. Fertilization supplies essential nutrients for healthy development. Although Swedish ivy needs relatively little fertilizer, feeding it annually can improve its survival and encourage better, longer-lasting flowers.

🪴 Pot & Repot 2-3 years

When repotting Swedish ivy, select a pot 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger that offers good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball is slightly lower than the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the plant in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.

Suggested frequency: 2-3 years
✂️ Pruning

To encourage bushier growth and improve the appearance of Swedish ivy, regular pruning is best done from early to late spring. Trim any leggy or damaged stems just above the leaf nodes. This promotes healthier development, prevents overgrowth, and keeps the plant compact and vigorous.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Plectranthus
Family
Lamiaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-12
Mature Height
30 cm to 61 cm
Mature Spread
61 cm to 91 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Light Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Lavender, White
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
All year round
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
All year round

Tags (5)

Common Names (3)

en Swedish-ivy
en Cuban oregano
en VARIGATED SWEDISH IVY