Swedish Ivy Plectranthus oertendahlii
ABOUT
The plant known as candle plant is a charming species valued for its decorative foliage and growth habit. Its leaves are a standout feature, being heart-shaped with an attractive color pattern. The top side of the leaf showcases a deep green hue with bright, silver markings that follow the veining, giving a shimmering effect as if the leaves were brushed with silver paint. This artistic patterning is one of the candle plant's most appealing visual traits, which is further enhanced by the undersides of the leaves that present a rich purplish tone, adding a touch of vibrant contrast to the overall look of the plant. The candle plant has a trailing or spreading nature, which allows it to drape gracefully when potted in hanging baskets or positioned on elevated surfaces. This quality makes it a favorite among those seeking an ornamental touch of greenery to enhance their indoor or outdoor spaces. During certain times of the year, the plant may produce small, non-showy flowers that generally do not attract as much interest as the stunning leaves themselves. Despite their less conspicuous nature, these flowers can add a subtle charm to the plant's aesthetic. Overall, the candle plant is sought after primarily for its visually striking foliage that can infuse elegance and color into a variety of settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Silver Spurflower, Candle Plant, Swedish Ivy.
Common names
Plectranthus oertendahlii
ToxicityTo humans
Candlestick plant (Plectranthus oertendahlii) is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects reported for ingestion of this plant. Therefore, if accidentally consumed, it is not expected to cause harm or poisoning symptoms.
To pets
Candlestick plant (Plectranthus oertendahlii) is also generally recognized as non-toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. Accidental ingestion of this plant should not lead to any severe poisoning symptoms or significant health consequences for pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pale pink
Height
1 feet [30 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: Plectranthus oertendahlii, commonly known as Candle Plant, is relatively easy to care for and does not require extensive gardening knowledge or attention.
- Decorative Appearance: With its attractive foliage that has a shimmering quality in the right light, the Candle Plant can add a beautiful decorative touch to indoor spaces.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant grows well in shaded areas where other plants may not thrive, making it a good option for gardens with less sunlight.
- Drought Resistance: It is somewhat tolerant to drought, making it suitable for those in water-scarce regions or for gardeners who prefer low-water-use plants.
- Adaptable to Containers: Its compact growth habit makes it ideal for growing in containers, which can be placed on patios, balconies, or indoors.
- Easy Propagation: The Candle Plant can be easily propagated from cuttings, allowing gardeners to create new plants and expand their collection without additional cost.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Plectranthus oertendahlii, commonly known as candle plant, can be used as a living mulch due to its dense foliage, which helps to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- It serves as an indicator plant in gardens because when it needs water, its leaves will droop noticeably, alerting gardeners to the needs of nearby plants as well.
- The candle plant can be used in terrariums, adding a variety of texture and color due to its striking leaves with bright green and silver markings.
- It's an ideal plant for hanging baskets because it has a semi-trailing habit which allows for a beautiful drape over the sides of the basket.
- Due to its relatively low light requirements, it can be grown in darker corners of a home or office where other plants might not thrive, thus brightening up less sunny spaces.
- Candle plant can be used in mixed container displays, combining with other plants to create an array of textures and colors for aesthetic appeal.
- Their textured leaves can be used in floral arrangements to add unique foliage contrasts and interest among flowers.
- It is a suitable plant for a fairy garden, as its low growth and lush leaves provide a fitting backdrop for miniature settings and figurines.
- Its fast-growing nature makes candle plant helpful in quickly establishing a green cover when setting up a new space for aesthetics or an event.
- In educational settings, it can be used to teach principles of plant care and propagation, as it roots easily from cuttings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Candle Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Candle Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance: Plectranthus oertendahlii, commonly known as the Candle Plant, is known for its robustness and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, symbolizing the ability to persevere through challenges.
- Growth: The Candle Plant's tendency to spread and grow quickly represents rapid growth, both personally and in one's endeavors.
- Healing: With its traditional use in some cultures for medicinal purposes, the Candle Plant signifies healing and the soothing of ailments.
- Protection: Often used in horticultural practices to complement other plants, the Candle Plant can symbolize protection and support for others in a community or family setting.
WaterThe Candle Plant should be watered regularly, keeping its soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Typically, watering once a week with about 8-10 ounces of water should be suitable. During the growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water more frequently, especially if the plant is in a warmer environment or the air is dry. It's important to reduce watering in the cooler, dormant months to prevent root rot. Always check the top inch of the soil for dryness before watering.
LightThe Candle Plant thrives in bright, indirect light. It's best to place it in a spot where it will receive plenty of light but be shielded from the harsh, direct rays of the sun, such as near a north or east-facing window. Avoid putting it in deep shade or direct sunlight, which can either cause leggy growth or scorch its leaves.
TemperatureThe Candle Plant prefers temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures of 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. Ideally, maintain a consistent environment within this temperature range to keep your plant healthy.
PruningPrune the Candle Plant to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. This can be done anytime during the year, but the best time for significant pruning is in the spring. Remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed, and pinch back the tips periodically to help stimulate new growth. The frequency of pruning generally depends on the plant's appearance and health; often, a light pruning every few months is sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCandle Plant prefers a well-draining soil mix composed of potting soil, peat, and perlite or sand to improve aeration. The ideal pH range for the soil is between 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingCandle Plant should typically be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth, or when it has outgrown its current pot.
Humidity & MistingCandle Plant thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, around 40-50%, and benefits from regular misting or a pebble tray to maintain these conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place the Candle Plant in bright, indirect light and keep evenly moist.
Outdoor
Grow Candle Plant in shade, shield from strong sun, and protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleCandle plant (Plectranthus oertendahlii) begins its life cycle with seed germination, where the initial root and shoot emerge after the seeds are sown in warm, moist soil with partial shade. As the seedling develops, it forms a rosette of fuzzy, green leaves with prominent silver markings and a purplish underside, entering the vegetative growth stage. During this stage, it grows rapidly, benefiting from regular watering and indirect light. As the plant matures, it may produce spikes of delicate, pale purple or white flowers, indicating the onset of the reproductive stage in favorable conditions, primarily in fall or late summer. After pollination, the flowers develop into small fruits that contain seeds, completing the cycle. The plant can also propagate vegetatively through cuttings, wherein a part of the stem with a few leaves can root and grow into a new plant when placed in suitable growing conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The most popular method for propagating Swedish Ivy, or Plectranthus oertendahlii, is through stem cuttings. This is generally done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, a gardener would cut a 4 to 6-inch length (about 10 to 15 cm) of stem just below a node, where leaves emerge. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cutting is placed in water or a moist potting mix. Rooting hormone can be used to encourage root development but is not strictly necessary. In water, roots will usually appear within a few weeks. Once a good root system has developed, the new plant can be transferred to a pot with regular potting soil.
