All About Gynura aurantiaca Care
Purple Passion Plant / Purple Velvet Plant
Gynura aurantiaca, commonly known as the Purple Passion Plant or Velvet Plant, is a stunning houseplant with deep purple leaves and a striking texture. Its dense foliage offers a captivating contrast with its vibrant chartreuse underside. If you’re looking to add a pop of color to your living space, this easy-to-care-for plant is an excellent choice.
While Gynura aurantiaca can produce small yellow-orange flowers under the right conditions, the true star of this plant is its foliage, overshadowing the flowers in terms of visual impact.
Continue reading to discover valuable tips on how to care for and nurture your Gynura aurantiaca, and make the most of its unique beauty.
How To Care for Gynura aurantiaca
Gynura aurantiaca is a tropical species native to Indonesia. They prefer bright, indirect light as they would get growing under trees. If you don’t have a room bright enough, Purple Passion plants do particularly well under grow lights and will develop a bright purple color.
Here are some grow lights we like:
As with other velvet-leaf plants, Purple Passion plants don’t like for their leaves to get wet. It’s best to bottom water or gently move the leaves aside when watering. Don’t worry if the leaves happen to get wet, just place the plant in an area where the leaves will dry quickly and they’ll be fine.
The average temperature and humidity in most home environments is perfect for these tropical plants. They love a bright, sunny window, especially during the cooler months but avoid direct summer sun.
Once Gynura matures, the vines become woody, and the leaves lose the vibrant purple color. I find that pruning every few years encourages bushy growth and vibrant color.
Care Summary
Zone
The ideal temperature range is 60° – 100 ℉
Purple Passion Plants prefer warm, humid conditions.
Find your zone here.
Water
They don’t like to completely dry out.
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry.
If you are unsure, stick your finger in the soil.
Avoid getting the leaves wet.
Too much water can cause root rot
Size
These are medium plants that stay fairly compact especially if pruned regularly.
Most are around 1 foot wide but vines can grow longer.
Light
Bright, indirect light but can grow well in medium-light situations.
Purple Velvet Plant loves the morning sun.
Direct sun after 11 am can cause sunburn.
Soil
Use a rich potting mix that drains well.
Compost will add much-needed nutrients.
Humidity
40% or higher humidity levels.
Native to subtropical regions.
Toxicity
Gynura Purple Passion is toxic to humans and pets.
Contains sesquiterpene lactones, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Find more pet-safe plants here.
Fertilizer
Fertilize every during the growing season.
Once every three months with Green Grub Insect Frass.
For synthetic, use an all-purpose houseplant fertilizer with a balanced ratio.
Propagation
Division
Stem or leaf cuttings
How to Propagate Gynura aurantiaca
Propagating Purple Passion plants is easy and needed to keep a bushy appearance.
There are two ways to propagate – division, and leaf cuttings. Both methods are best done in the spring.
Division
1. This is easily done while repotting your plant. Once you have the rootball out of the pot, use a sharp knife to cut individual offsets away from the main plant. Make sure to get enough roots to support the new offset.
2. Likewise you can also loosen the rootball with your fingers and gently separate the offset from the main plant.
3. Plant your new offset into a rooting medium, keep moist and wait for the plant to establish.
4. Once your offset is established and growing well. Repot into a pot that is 1 inch larger than the rootball and enjoy your new plant!
Stem Cuttings
1. Take cuttings of healthy stems with at least three leaves. I prefer to have at least five cuttings.
2. Plant the stem(s) into a rooting medium and keep the medium moist, not wet.
3. Cover with a clear plastic or glass dome so that the leaves do not dry out. Seed starting kits and propagation boxes work well for this.
4. Place your cuttings/ prop box in a warm area with bright indirect light and keep medium moist, not wet.
5. Wait for new growth. Once you have a thriving plant-let, repot, and slowly acclimate to a less humid environment.
Common Problems with Gynura aurantiaca
Gynura aurantiaca, also known as the Purple Passion Plant or Velvet Plant, may encounter a few common problems that can affect its health and appearance. Here are some issues you might face and their solutions:
Root rot: Excessively moist soil or poor drainage can lead to root rot, resulting in yellowing leaves, wilting, and even plant death.
Solution: Ensure the soil has proper drainage by using a well-draining potting mix and emptying the saucer beneath the pot after each watering. If the soil feels overly damp, reduce the frequency of watering.
Pests: Spider mites and whiteflies are common pests that can harm Gynura aurantiaca, causing leaf damage and inhibiting plant growth.
Solution: Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests, such as webbing or tiny insects. Control the infestation by using insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the product instructions. Additionally, wipe the plant’s leaves with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
Leaf drop: Changes in temperature or inconsistent watering can cause the plant to drop its leaves.
Solution: Maintain a consistent watering schedule, ensuring the plant is neither overwatered nor sitting in standing water. Place the plant in a location with stable temperatures and good air circulation to minimize leaf drop.
Fungal infections: Gynura aurantiaca can be vulnerable to fungal infections like powdery mildew or leaf spot.
Solution: Promptly remove infected leaves to prevent the spread of the infection. Avoid overhead watering to minimize moisture on the leaves. Apply a suitable fungicide spray following the instructions on the product label. Additionally, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant to discourage fungal growth.
By addressing these common problems and applying the suggested solutions, you can help your Gynura aurantiaca thrive and maintain its vibrant appearance. Remember to monitor the plant regularly and provide appropriate care to ensure its well-being.
Get your own Gynura aurantiaca here.
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