Plectranthus Variegated

• Native to South Africa, this member of the mint family has naturalized in many warm climates including parts of Australia
• Features heart-shaped leaves with stunning cream, white, and green variegation that varies with light conditions
• Fast-growing trailing habit makes it excellent for hanging baskets, groundcover, or cascading from containers
• Produces small tubular flowers in white or pale purple spikes that attract beneficial insects
• Also known as Swedish Ivy despite not being Swedish or true ivy

• Water when top 2cm of soil is dry, typically weekly in growing season and fortnightly in winter
• Position in bright, indirect light indoors or dappled shade outdoors - avoid harsh afternoon sun
• Use well-draining potting mix with good organic content and perlite for drainage
• Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during spring and summer growing season
• Pinch back regularly to maintain compact shape and remove spent flowers to encourage foliage
• Maintain humidity levels with regular misting or pebble trays, especially indoors
• Protect from frost in winter - bring containers indoors or provide shelter in cold regions

• Provide bright, indirect light indoors or filtered shade outdoors for best variegation - direct sun can scorch leaves
• Water when top 2cm of soil feels dry, more frequently in summer and less in winter
• Maintain humidity around 50-60% by grouping with other plants or using a humidity tray
• Keep temperatures between 18-24°C for optimal growth and avoid cold drafts
• Pinch growing tips regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess

• Aphids can cluster on new growth - spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap weekly until controlled
• Overwatering causes root rot and yellowing leaves - ensure good drainage and reduce watering frequency
• Spider mites appear in dry conditions - increase humidity and mist regularly, or use predatory mites
• Fungal leaf spots occur in humid conditions with poor air circulation - improve ventilation and avoid overhead watering
• Mealybugs hide in leaf joints - dab with rubbing alcohol or systemic insecticide treatment