Common
name: "Purple Passion" or "Purple
Velvet Plant"
Latin name: Gynura aurantiaca - synonym Gynura
sarmentosa
Native
to: Indonesia
Growth habit: A semi-vining, semi-upright plant
usually not over 20" in height or 24" in width.
Flowers: Yes, should be removed.
Temps: Normal indoor temps
Humidity: Not critical. Pests: Watch for aphids
and mealy bug.
Lighting:
Pictured
Houseplant:
3" Purple Passion
Houseplant
Cultural
information: "Purple Passion" is an
awesomely beautiful plant. Their soft leaves are covered with very
fine purple hairs. If your plant blooms... it will reward you with
some quite stinky flowers.
Place your "Purple Passion" in bright light... just
shy of full sun. This plant is very sensitive to over watering.
Allow the soil to dry just before wilting point of the plant, then
water. Within a couple of weeks you will understand it's wilting
point. Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer such as
Peter's Plant Food. If your plant becomes leggy or to big just cut
it back to the desired length. Cuttings are hard to root... but
give them a try in moist potting soil or vermiculite.
"Purple Passion" plants are usually available as
small starter plants in 3" or 4" containers. Larger
plants and hanging baskets are hard to find.
