SPECIMEN NO. #53
🟢 PET SAFE
Family: Lamiaceae
Plectranthus verticillatus
Common Name: Swedish Ivy
Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus) is a houseplant in the Lamiaceae family, native to Africa. It is a bright indirect-light species that thrives between 1500 and 4500 lux. Optimal indoor care calls for watering roughly every 7 days, temperatures of 15–28°C, and about 50% humidity. According to ASPCA data, it is non-toxic and considered pet-safe for cats and dogs. It is also known as Gossip Spurflower.
ASPCA Pet Toxicity Determination
Toxic to Dogs?
NO (Safe)
Toxic to Cats?
NO (Safe)
Clinical Symptoms:
Non-toxic. Safe for dogs and cats.
Quantitative Care Thresholds
Light Level Profile
Bright Indirect
Minimum Light Requirement
1500 Lux
Maximum Light Tolerance
4500 Lux
Watering Frequency
Every 7 Days
Temperature Envelope
15°C – 28°C
Ideal Ambient Humidity
50% RH
Taxonomic & Field Verification
GBIF Usage Key
2926638
Native Biogeographical Range
Africa; Caribbean; Galápagos Islands; INTRODUCED; Middle America; Mozambique; So...