Genus guide
Plectranthus — 21 species
Part of the Mint & sage family family (Lamiaceae)
Plectranthus is a diverse genus in the mint family, spanning trailing houseplants like Swedish Ivy to bold foliage cultivars such as 'Kong Rose' and 'Wizard Scarlet' coleus. Most species prefer bright indirect light; direct afternoon sun can scorch leaves, while too little causes leggy growth. Water when the top inch of soil dries, keeping the mix evenly moist but never waterlogged. Toxicity varies across the genus: Swedish Ivy is listed as non-toxic by the ASPCA, while coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides) is toxic to cats and dogs. Check each species before buying.
All Plectranthus species we cover
- Blue Spurflower
- Cuban Oregano
- Ernst's Spurflower
- Flowering coleus
- Forest Spurflower
- Fringed Spurflower
- Indian Coleus
- Lobster Flower
- Mintleaf Spurflower
- Money Plant Spurflower
- Painted Nettle
- Pink Spur Flower
- Plectranthus Oertendahlii
- Plectranthus scutellarioides 'Black Dragon'
- Plectranthus scutellarioides 'Freckles'
- Plectranthus scutellarioides 'Kong Rose'
- Plectranthus scutellarioides 'Rainbow Festive Dance'
- Plectranthus scutellarioides 'Wizard Scarlet'
- Silver Spurflower
- Swedish Ivy
- Zulu Spurflower
Plectranthus — frequently asked questions
Are Plectranthus plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Plectranthus are not pet-safe. Of the 21 Plectranthus species in the Growli library, 17 (81%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 4 are pet-safe. Always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.
How much light do Plectranthus plants need?
Most Plectranthus do best in bright indirect light. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Plectranthus easy to care for?
Plectranthus are moderate to grow: the main requirement is a genuinely bright spot out of harsh midday sun. Get the light right and the rest of their care follows.
How many Plectranthus varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 21 Plectranthus species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Plectranthus, the rest follow closely.
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