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How to Grow Alternanthera

Alternanthera is a popular compact, low growing plant grown primarily for its striking foliage colour. Available in shades of burgundy, purple, lime green and orangey-red it’s a hardy, low maintenance plant best suited to frost free zones. It does well in areas with high humidity and looks wonderful when grown as a low border plant, ground cover or planted in containers.

Full sun to semi shade

Regular watering required, particularly during dry weather

Well drained soil.

Suitable for all climatic zones. All year round.

How to grow alternanthera in a garden

Step 1

Choose a sunny to semi-shaded spot with well drained soil. Enrich the soil with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser. In areas with heavy or clay soil, to help improve soil structure and drainage, add gypsum and mix in well.

Step 2

Dig the planting hole twice as wide and to the same depth as the root-ball. Remove the plant from the container, gently tease the roots and cut away any circled or tangled roots.

Step 3

Position in hole and backfill with soil, gently firming down. Form a raised or doughnut shaped ring of soil around the outer edge of the plant's root zone. This helps keep water where it's needed. Always water in well after planting to settle the soil around the roots and keep the soil moist for several weeks while the new plant establishes.

Step 4

Mulch around the base with organic mulch like bark chips, sugarcane or pea straw, keeping it away from the stem.

Step 5

Water deeply, once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.

Step 6

Feed in autumn and spring with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser to promote strong root development & healthy foliage.

How to grow alternanthera in a pot

Step 1

Pick a compact variety that can be grown in a pot. Choose a pot at least 300mm wide and deep. Position in full sun to semi-shade.

Step 2

Fill chosen pot with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter. Remove the plant from the container, gently tease the roots and cut away any circled or tangled roots.