Red Alternanthera (Alternanthera Red)

Red Alternanthera, commonly known as Red Sessile Joyweed, is a striking ground cover plant prized for its vibrant red foliage. Native to South America, it is widely used in landscaping, garden beds, borders, and container planting due to its compact growth habit and colorful appearance.

The plant has small, oval-shaped leaves that are a deep, rich red, which can create a dramatic contrast when paired with green or variegated plants. Red Alternanthera grows densely, forming a lush mat that helps suppress weeds and adds texture to outdoor spaces.

It is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that can tolerate a variety of growing conditions. It thrives in both full sun and partial shade and can adapt to different soil types. Its drought-tolerant nature makes it suitable for areas with limited water availability. Additionally, it has uses in traditional medicine.

Caring for your Red Alternanthera

Difficulty level: Easy
Light requirement: Full sun to partial shade (full sun enhances leaf color)
Watering: Moderate; allow soil to dry slightly between watering
Soil type: Well-draining, fertile soil
Fertilization: Feed every 4–6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season
Pruning: Trim occasionally to maintain shape and encourage dense growth
Temperature: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates; sensitive to frost