The Purple Velvet Plant (Gynura aurantiaca) is a captivating houseplant known for its distinctive, fuzzy foliage. Its deep purple hue and velvety texture make it a popular choice for adding unique visual appeal to indoor spaces. Originating from Southeast Asia, this plant is primarily cherished for its leaves rather than its blooms, which can have an unpleasant scent. It is relatively easy to care for.
Meet the Purple Velvet Plant
The Purple Velvet Plant, also known as Purple Passion Vine or Velvet Plant, has a striking appearance. Its leaves appear entirely purple but are actually green, densely covered with fine, soft purple hairs that give them a velvety feel. The stems are also covered in similar purple hairs.
This plant typically grows upright when young, but its stems sprawl and vine as it matures. It can be grown in hanging baskets, allowed to cascade from shelves, or trained on a small trellis. While it can produce small, daisy-like flowers, many growers remove them due to their unpleasant odor and less ornamental nature compared to the foliage.
Caring for Purple Velvet Flower
Light Needs
Purple Velvet Plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which maintains their vibrant purple coloration. Insufficient light causes the plant to lose its deep purple hue, resulting in greener leaves and leggy growth. Too much direct sunlight, especially harsh afternoon sun, can scorch the leaves, leading to browning or bleaching. Ideal placement is an unobstructed eastern window or a spot a few feet from a southern window.
Watering Schedule
Consistent moisture is important, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom, discarding any excess in the saucer. Reduce watering frequency during winter months when growth slows.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic potting mix is preferred for Purple Velvet Plants. A suitable mixture includes peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil, providing good drainage and aeration while retaining moisture. Proper drainage prevents waterlogging and root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Purple Velvet Plants prefer warm conditions, thriving in temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). They are sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (13°C), which can cause stress and leaf drop. As tropical plants, they appreciate moderate to high humidity levels. To increase humidity, use a pebble tray or a room humidifier, but avoid misting the foliage directly as fine hairs can trap moisture, potentially leading to fungal issues.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring through fall), the Purple Velvet Plant benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every 2-3 weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing entirely during winter months when the plant’s growth slows.
Maintaining Your Purple Velvet Flower
Regular maintenance keeps the Purple Velvet Plant healthy. Pruning encourages bushier growth and maintains shape, especially as the plant can become leggy. Pinching off vine ends back to a set of leaves promotes branching and a more compact appearance. Remove any flowers that appear, as they have an unpleasant smell and divert energy from the foliage.
Repotting is typically needed when the plant becomes root-bound, usually every 1-2 years. Choose a pot only one size larger than the current one to prevent excess moisture retention and root rot. Use a fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Propagating Purple Velvet Flower
Propagating Purple Velvet Plants is simple using stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem cutting with at least two to three leaf nodes. Remove lower leaves, leaving a few at the top. Place the cutting in water until roots develop or plant directly into moist, well-draining soil.
For soil propagation, keep the soil consistently moist during rooting. Place the pot in bright, indirect light for successful root development. New plants typically establish within 4-6 weeks.
Troubleshooting Common Purple Velvet Flower Problems
Common issues with Purple Velvet Plants often signal environmental adjustments are needed.
Leggy growth: Characterized by elongated stems and sparse foliage, this usually indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location and prune leggy sections to encourage bushier growth. A fading purple color also points to inadequate light.
Brown or crispy leaf edges: This is a sign of underwatering or low humidity. Increase watering frequency and provide additional humidity, perhaps with pebble trays.
Yellowing leaves: A common symptom of overwatering, indicating the soil is too wet and can lead to root rot. Ensure proper drainage and allow the topsoil to dry between waterings.
Pests: Purple Velvet Plants are susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Look for fine webbing, cottony masses, or sticky residue. Address these issues promptly with treatments like insecticidal soap or neem oil.