How do you care for variegated Plectranthus?
Plectranthus coleoides ‘Variegata’ is a versatile, easy-to-grow plant that thrives in partial shade, partial sun, or full sun. It prefers moist, well-drained soil but should not remain constantly wet. This low-maintenance plant can be trimmed or pinched as needed to maintain its shape and size. If you’ve ever grown variegated plectranthus, you know how smelly this plant is. Just brush it gently or splash water onto leaves, and the odor is released. That odor is what helps repel mosquitoes—and a host of other insects. This plant goes by many names, including Madagascar spur flower, Swedish ivy and mintleaf.
Can Plectranthus be grown indoors?
In colder climates, Plectranthus should be brought indoors to protect it from frost. Indoors, Plectranthus makes an excellent houseplant, bringing a touch of nature into living spaces, offices, or kitchens. Its trailing vines look stunning in hanging baskets, cascading over shelves, or in decorative pots on tabletops. Grow in organically rich, evenly moist soil. Plants should not be allowed to dry out, but can tolerate brief periods of drought. Pinch as needed to keep bushy and compact in annual containers or beds. Plectranthus Velvet™ Lady can be wintered over indoors where it makes an attractive houseplant, along with P.Fertilizer. Plectranthus appreciate monthly fertilization during their active growing period, from the spring to the fall. A standard 10-20-10 plant fertilizer should be sufficient for most varieties.
How to keep Plectranthus blooming?
Thus, except for gardeners in the deep South, Plectranthus is more often grown as an indoor potted houseplant. To enjoy plentiful indoor blooms, you will need to give it lots of bright light. Failure to bloom is usually the result of not enough light or too much high nitrogen fertilizer. Pest problems for Plectranthus are rarely found but can include whiteflies, aphids and red spider mites during summer months. Diseases include leaf spots, stem rots and root rots.