About the Iboza Vine Plant

Size, Bloom and Foliage

• Iboza vines grow to between 6 and 12 inches tall and spread in vining fashion to a diameter of 3 feet. Tiny white or pink flowers form in 6-inch long racemes in late spring or early summer. Their leathery-looking leaves are oval or rounded with lightly scalloped edges. The leaves of some varieties are smooth and shiny while others are covered with fine hairs, giving them a velvety look. Most of these plants have some degree of variegation on the foliage. P. coleides variegata foliage is dark rich green with bright white irregular variegation around the edges that sometimes runs through the center of the leaves. P. fosteri "Green on Green" has hairy sea green foliage with lime green variegation around the edges. P. madagascariensis "Lothlorien" has smooth shiny mint green leaves with yellowish variegation up the center of the leaves.

As a Perennial Ground Cover

• These plants are hardy in hot USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11. In these areas, iboza vines can be grown outdoors as perennial ground covers. High summer heat and humidity do not bother these plants. They can be planted in full sun but grow best in partial shade. Organically rich soil that contains high levels of humus is preferred by these plants. Heavy clay soils that do not drain well are not suitable. Water them regularly to keep the soil consistently moist.

As an Annual Ground Cover

• Iboza vines can also be grown in outdoor gardens as an annual ground cover plant. Soil, sun and water requirements are the same whether grown as an annual in cold winter climates or as a perennial in hot climates. Plant them in the garden after all danger of frost has passed in the spring. These plants will not tolerate frost.

As a Houseplant

• Iboza vines are also kept as houseplants. They are generally planted in hanging containers but may also be planted around the edge of a large container with a rubber plant or dracaena and allowed to drape over the side. Commercial sphagnum peat moss-type potting soil is fine for this plant. Place it in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. They will tolerate direct morning sunlight but should not be placed in direct, hot midday sunshine. Water them once or twice per week from spring through fall. The soil should not be allowed to dry out between waterings. Give it a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength once each month. Cut back on watering to once every seven to 10 days and do not give the plant fertilizer during the winter. Allow the top of the soil to dry between waterings. Room temperatures should be between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit with average humidity. In dry homes the plant should be misted in the mornings.