Madagascar Plectranthus Plant Care

Madagascar Plectranthus (Plectranthus madagascariensis) belongs to the Lamiaceae family within the Plectranthus genus. Madagascar Plectranthus is native to southern Africa and southeastern Africa. Madagascar Plectranthus is also known as Swedish Ivy.

Madagascar Plectranthus displays a bushy, spreading perennial growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Madagascar Plectranthus produces small, tubular flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Plectranthus madagascariensis requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Madagascar Plectranthus thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Madagascar Plectranthus in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Plectranthus madagascariensis grows best at temperatures of 60–80°F. Madagascar Plectranthus prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Well-draining soil mix with added perlite for good aeration. Good drainage is essential for Madagascar Plectranthus to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Madagascar Plectranthus every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Madagascar Plectranthus can be propagated through stem cuttings, division. Similar propagation techniques also apply to moth orchid plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Madagascar Plectranthus is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, aphids. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Madagascar Plectranthus grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10a – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10a. Madagascar Plectranthus is native to southern Africa and southeastern Africa. In cooler regions, grow Madagascar Plectranthus as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.