Creeping Charlie Care: What to Know

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Today, we’re talking about Creeping Charlie, botanically known as Plectranthus australis, also commonly called Swedish Ivy. This fast-growing, evergreen perennial is native to South Africa and thrives in indoor gardens. It’s easy to propagate, easy to grow, and will fill out beautifully. You can place it on top of a bookcase where it will spill down, in a hanging basket, or simply in a basket on a table. I absolutely adore this plant because of its ease of growth and how pretty the foliage is—vibrant green, sometimes variegated, with a slight limey hue and shiny leaves. The leaf pattern is quite intriguing; it almost looks unreal.

Creeping Charlie has some fun nicknames like Runaway Robin, Lizzy Run Up the Hedge, Gill Over the Ground, and Ground Ivy—though that last one is a bit boring compared to the others. You can pick your favorite, or name your plant whatever you like—maybe “Sally on the Run.”

Now, let’s talk about how to keep your Creeping Charlie, aka Sally on the Run, healthy and happy in your indoor garden. These plants prefer low to medium lighting, though I recommend leaning toward medium lighting. Some people think low lighting means a dark room, but that’s not ideal. Eastern exposure windows are perfect, provided there’s no obstruction outside like trees or buildings. This plant loves an unobstructed eastern exposure. Full-spectrum lighting also works wonders, simulating daylight, and you can find full-spectrum light bulbs for almost any fixture.

When it comes to watering, avoid overwatering as these plants are susceptible to root rot. I recommend using a moisture meter and waiting until the soil is in the 4 or 3 range—still moist but not bone dry. Always water with warm to tepid water to prevent shocking the plant, which can lead to root dieback and subsequently root rot. This is especially important during colder months when tap water can be extremely cold.

For fertilizing, these plants don’t require a lot, but occasional fertilization will help them look their best. Once a month, use a liquid or granular organic fertilizer, following the package directions. Always err on the side of caution—using half of the recommended amount is better than over-fertilizing, which can cause root dieback and salt buildup in the soil. Organic fertilizers are gentler and provide better long-term nutrition.

In terms of temperature, while these plants can grow in temperatures as low as 50 degrees, they thrive best between 65 to 80 degrees. During winter, if your home gets cold, consider moving the plant to a warmer area, but make sure it still has sufficient light.

You can trim the plant back occasionally, especially if you want fuller growth. When pruning, cut back to the second set of leaves to avoid leaving bare stems, which the plant would need to slough off before growing again.

Regarding pests and diseases, as mentioned, these plants are susceptible to root rot. You might also encounter mealybugs or scale, so keep an eye out. When watering or checking on your plant, inspect the leaves and stems for any signs of pests or disease.

That’s it for Creeping Charlie, aka Runaway Sally, aka Swedish Ivy! Thank you for stopping by today. Please leave any comments about indoor gardening tutorials you’d like to see. Remember to like, comment, subscribe, and share this video, and hit the bell if you’d like to be notified when we release new videos.

Creeping Charlie (Swedish Ivy): Your Questions Answered

What is Creeping Charlie?

Creeping Charlie, also known as Plectranthus australis or Swedish Ivy, is a fast-growing, evergreen perennial native to South Africa that thrives in indoor gardens. It’s easy to propagate and grow, with vibrant green, sometimes variegated foliage that has a slight limey hue and shiny leaves.

What lighting does Creeping Charlie prefer?

Creeping Charlie prefers low to medium lighting, with a preference for medium lighting. An unobstructed eastern exposure window is ideal, or you can use full-spectrum lighting to simulate daylight.

How should I water my Creeping Charlie?

To avoid overwatering, use a moisture meter and water when the soil is in the 4 or 3 range—still moist but not bone dry. Always use warm to tepid water to prevent shocking the plant and causing root dieback.

How often should I fertilize Creeping Charlie?

Fertilize Creeping Charlie once a month with a liquid or granular organic fertilizer, following package directions. It’s better to use half the recommended amount to avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause root dieback and salt buildup in the soil.

What is the ideal temperature for Creeping Charlie?

Creeping Charlie thrives best in temperatures between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If your home gets cold during winter, move the plant to a warmer area while ensuring it still receives sufficient light.

How should I prune Creeping Charlie?

Trim the plant back occasionally to encourage fuller growth. When pruning, cut back to the second set of leaves to avoid leaving bare stems.

What pests and diseases should I watch out for with Creeping Charlie?

Creeping Charlie is susceptible to root rot, mealybugs, and scale. Regularly inspect the leaves and stems for any signs of pests or disease.

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Video: Plant Stories: Creeping Charlie:    • Creeping Charley History / Plant Stories  

Video on watering with warm water:    • Always Water Houseplants with Warm Water  

Video on full-spectrum lighting:    • Artificial Full-Spectrum Lighting for…  

Video on using a moisture meter:    • How to Use a Moisture Meter  

Video on treating mealybugs:    • How to Get Rid of Mealybugs on Housep…