Alternanthera brasiliana (Joy weed, Calico plant, Alternanthera, Gomphrena)

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Plant description

Alternanthera brasiliana is a colourful groundcovering perennial. Use as a contrast or accent plant in warmer areas, or as an annual in cooler climates, as it is frost tender. It makes a good low hedge plant, for massed plantings, for contrast in flower beds, and is a good container plant. It bears clusters of small white flowers, but the plant is grown for the foliage colour.

Alternanthera likes a part shade to full sun position, but the best colour is developed in the sun. It does best in moist, well drained soil, but is an adaptable plant to different situations. Lightly trim the plant to encourage a compact habit, or to keep the plant to a particular size. They respond well to regular tip pruning. 

The leaves are edible, and can be used raw or in soups and stews. They should not be eaten by pregnant women. A poultice of the leaves can be used for boils.

Propagation is from cuttings, which root readily.

This plant is also known as Alternanthera dentata, Gomphrena dentata, Gomphrena brasiliensis and Telanthera dentata.

This plant is becoming an environmental weed in wet areas in Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Additional plant information

Flowers

Flower colour: cream
Flowering season: summer

Plant size

Maximum height: 1 metres
Minimum height: 0.6 metres

Maximum width: 0.9 metres
Minimum width: not specified

Sunlight, frost & salt tolerance

This plant will tolerate full or partial sunlight.
Light frost tolerance.
Plant is salt tolerant.

Fauna attracting?

Not specified.

Climate

This plant species will grow in the following climates: cool, temperate, subtropical, tropical.

Soil types & conditions

Loam: moist, well-drained.

Clay: moist, well-drained.

Sand: moist, well-drained.

Soil pH: 6.1-7.5

Pests

Mealy bugs, aphids

Miscellaneous information

Planting season: Any in warm areas, spring in cooler areas.

Types of fertiliser: Good general purpose fertiliser. A high nitrogen fertiliser will stimulate foliage growth..

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