Plectranthus verticillatus image • Photo: Author SergioTorresC• CC BY-SA 3.0
Plectranthus verticillatus is a trailing perennial plant with glossy, rounded green leaves that often display deep purple undersides and stems. Its fleshy, serrated leaves grow 64-90 mm long with reddish sessile glands and hairy textures. The plant reaches 10-30 cm in height and spreads up to 60 cm, producing upright racemes of white, pale violet, or pink flowers. Notable for its aromatic foliage and purple accents, it is commonly grown as a hanging houseplant or groundcover in frost-free regions.
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Plectranthus verticillatus
Light Requirements
indirect sunlight
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
regular watering to maintain consistent moisture
Humidity Needs
medium humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
15°C to 25°C (frost-free)
Native Climate
Native to Southern Africa (Cape Provinces, KwaZulu-Natal, Eswatini, Northern Provinces, southern Mozambique)
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-draining potting mix
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Plectranthus verticillatus plants
stem cuttings rooted in water or soil
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Southern Africa (Cape Provinces, KwaZulu-Natal, Eswatini, Northern Provinces, southern Mozambique)
fast
10-30 cm tall, up to 60 cm spread
perennial
Pet safety unknown
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Bloom Season
sporadically year-round, most frequently in spring and late autumn
Flower Description
Upright racemes with 2-4 small flowers per verticillaster, colors include white, pale violet, or pale pink
Fun Fact
A specimen of Plectranthus verticillatus has been displayed in the Oval Office since 1961, gifted to President John F. Kennedy. Clippings from this plant are often distributed to White House staff.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Plectranthus verticillatus
Fine webbing on leaves, yellowing foliage, and stunted growth in weakened plants
Varieties
Different varieties of Plectranthus verticillatus
Variegated cultivar with silvery foliage, often confused with Swedish ivy
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Plectranthus verticillatus
Trailing Plants Plants Care Guide
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Low Maintenance Plants Care Guide
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Foliage Plants Plants Care Guide
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Flowering Plants Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for flowering plants plants like your Plectranthus verticillatus
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