|
 Common
name(s):
Purple velvet plant
Royal velvet plant
From Indonesia, this evergreen perennial or subshrub to 24 in (60
cm) high has weak, somewhat scrambling stems covered with purple
hairs. The ovate, toothed leaves to 8 in (20 cm) long also have a
downy covering of purple hairs. Clusters of narrow orange-yellow
flowerheads are produced mainly in winter. ÔPurple PassionÕ has more
elongated or pendent stems and smaller, more jaggedly-toothed leaves
that have reddish purple hairs on the underside. It is more popular
as an indoor plant, often incorrectly named Gynura sarmentosa.
Hardiness zone from 10 To 12
Cultivation: Frost tender, they are suitable for growing outdoors
only in tropical and subtropical areas where they need fertile,
well-drained soil and some shade. Scrambling species will need some
support for the stems. Tip prune regularly to encourage compact
growth. Indoors use a good potting mix and keep moist during the
growing season. Avoid wetting the foliage. Propagate from cuttings
in late spring or summer. |
