Variegated Swedish ivy, variegated Plectranthus

Light: partial sun to partial shade

A plant that is making a comeback on garden center shelves after a popularity streak in the mid-1970s is variegated Swedish ivy (Plectranthus coleoides f. variegata).

This plant has one-inch, ovate leaves that are dark-lime green with a lovely white margin. The white margin appears as an irregular leaf border, giving the plant the now-coveted variegated appearance. The leaf edge has rounded scallops.

The inconspicuous flowers are small and white. This member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) has many of the family features, including square stems and fragrant foliage. The leaves of a variegated Swedish ivy have a spicy, not sweet, fragrance.

The variegated Swedish ivy is a vigorous grower, displaying a central mound with trailing stems. This plant could be grown as a bedding annual, but makes a better display in a container, window box or hanging basket.

Variegated Swedish ivy can be enjoyed in the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse as part of the Orchids exhibition at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.