Ivy White Edge Swedish

Plectranthus coleoides ‘Variegata’ (or Plectranthus forsteri ‘Marginatus’)

Characteristics

Culture

Ivy White Edge Swedish is winter hardy to USDA Zone 10-11 where it is easily grown in rich, humusy, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade. Best performance occurs in part shade or sun dappled areas with regular and even moisture. Avoid poorly drained clay soils. Ivy White Edge Swedish plants are intolerant of frost. In North Texas, this plant is typically grown as a container or bedding annual. It is easily propagated by cuttings. Plants or cuttings may be overwintered indoors if desired. It also may be grown as a houseplant in bright, mostly sunny exposures.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Plectranthus forsteri, commonly called Swedish ivy, is an upright-spreading tender perennial that grows to 10” tall and spreads to 36” wide. Leaves emit a mild citrus aroma when bruised. Tubular, two-lipped, tiny pale pink to white flowers bloom in racemes to 6” long in summer. Flowers are not particularly showy. 

‘Variegatas’ is a variegated cultivar that is particularly noted for its attractive foliage. Round, scallop-edged, light green leaves (to 4” long) with creamy white margins appear on reddish upright stems that trail with age.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for mealybugs, scale, and mites.

Garden Uses

Ivy White Edge Swedish is primarily grown for its attractive foliage. Grow in borders, foundations or containers where winter hardy. In North Texas, grow as an annual for bedding, containers, tubs or hanging baskets. Houseplant.