First and foremost, it is critical to understand that these two plants are not closely related. English Ivy (Hedera helix) is a true ivy, belonging to the Araliaceae family. It is a woody, evergreen vine native to Europe and Western Asia. In contrast, Swedish Ivy is a common name for Plectranthus verticillatus. It is not a true ivy but a member of the Lamiaceae, or mint, family. It is a herbaceous perennial native to Southern Africa. This fundamental difference in ancestry dictates nearly all of their subsequent care needs and growth habits.
Our light preferences differ significantly. As English Ivy, I am incredibly adaptable but truly thrive in bright, indirect light. I can also tolerate lower light conditions, though my growth may become leggy and my variegated varieties will likely revert to solid green. Direct, hot sun can scorch my delicate leaves. Swedish Ivy, however, has a much higher light appetite. To maintain its compact, trailing form and prevent leggy growth, it requires several hours of bright, direct sunlight daily, such as in an east or west-facing window. It will not thrive in low light.
Our watering schedules are a point of major divergence. I, English Ivy, prefer to have my soil dry out slightly between waterings. I am susceptible to root rot if kept in constantly soggy soil, so a "less is more" approach is often best. Swedish Ivy has a much thirstier nature. It prefers consistently moist soil and will wilt dramatically to signal its need for water. It generally bounces back quickly after a thorough drink. Regarding humidity, I appreciate higher humidity levels to keep my leaves lush and to discourage spider mites, a common pest for me. Swedish Ivy is considerably more forgiving of average household humidity.
Our growth patterns and temperature tolerances further highlight our differences. I am a climbing or trailing vine, using aerial rootlets to attach to surfaces like trees and walls. I prefer cooler temperatures, ideally between 50-70°F (10-21°C), and I can even tolerate brief periods of frost, making me suitable for outdoor gardening in many climates. Swedish Ivy is a softer, more succulent-like trailer perfect for hanging baskets. It prefers consistently warmer temperatures, above 60°F (15°C), and is highly sensitive to frost. It is primarily grown as a houseplant because it cannot survive cold winters outdoors.
Both of us do well in a well-draining, peat-based potting mix. However, my (English Ivy) soil can be slightly heavier. A standard potting mix is perfectly adequate. Swedish Ivy, with its need for consistent moisture yet fear of waterlogging, benefits from a richer, more organic mix that retains moisture without becoming compacted. For fertilization, we both benefit from a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength. I should be fed monthly during my active growing season (spring and summer), while Swedish Ivy can be fertilized every two weeks during its same growth period for optimal lushness.
