Commonly known as Purple Passion or Velvet Plant as its dark green leaves are covered with velvety iridescent purple hairs. Its unique feature and its ease of cultivation have made it a popular house plant across much of the world. Gynura aurantiaca belongs to the Daisy Family, Asteraceae, but its orange dandelion-like flowers are generally irrelevant as compared to its beautiful foliage due to the unpleasant, pungent smell (which some call offensive!). This plant is generally easy to maintain, whether grown indoors, on the patio, or corridor. They have semi-succulent leaves which help them to tolerate dry conditions, and they are tolerant of a variety of light levels. Their creeping habit makes Purple Passion an excellent candidate for hanging baskets, and don't be afraid to prune if it starts getting too leggy or making too many flowers!
Light: Prefer bright indoor areas with indirect sunlight, but will also tolerate low light conditions.
Water: Although Purple Passion is easy to care for, problems can arise when they are overwatered. To avoid this, allow the top inch of the plant media to dry out between waterings and be careful to avoid water standing on the leaves.
Temperature: Plant tolerates temperatures from 18-28°C.
Fertilizer: An all-purpose, water-soluble balanced fertilizer that contains an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g. N-P-K: 15-15-15 +TE) will help to boost the plant's overall health by feeding it every two weeks. Otherwise, a slow-release fertilizer (e.g. Osmocote) can be incorporated into the potting media, and to be replenished after about 2-3 months. Do follow the recommended dosage indicated on the fertilizer’s application instructions.
*Product photo shown is for reference only. Actual product may vary as each individual plant has its own appearance (colours, form and size), and pot colour may differ from photo.