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Plectranthus ernstii
The plant can be placed in a sunny location, but a semi-shade is ideal.
Always water a few days after the substrate has dried out. In winter, limit watering. The plant can tolerate larger deviations in watering.
Room temperature is ideal, but it can tolerate -1.1 °C for short periods. The plant is not hardy.
This semi-succulent plant has a pleasant scent and is therefore a very pleasant household companion.
Plectranthus ernstii, also called Swedish Ivy, is a charming succulent plant in the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the sand hills of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape in South Africa. It is named after its discoverer, Ernest van Jaardveld.
This plant boasts dull green leaves that sometimes have a dark purple colouring underneath. In direct sunlight, the leaves turn purple to yellow. They are covered with fine hair. These slightly succulent leaves are intensely scented, making them a pleasant household companion. The old leaves fall off naturally. Plectranthus ernstii has articulated, knotted, brown stems that grow up to 5 cm long. It is a pachycaultic plant with thick roots that grows up to 25 cm tall.
The anther-like flowers grow arranged in a raceme-like inflorescence. They can be white, light blue or purple in colour and appear sporadically throughout the year. However, they are more abundant in spring and late autumn.
This plant is ideal for a sheltered spot. It responds to lack of water by wilting and drooping leaves. Plectranthus ernstii can be shaped like a succulent bonsai and each piece is an absolutely inimitable original. The beautiful flowers, the pleasant looking appearance of the plant and the intoxicating fragrance make it a very popular choice with our customers.