Family: Amaranthaceae
Bloodleaf
Amaranth redroot, ‘scarlet temple’. This groundhugging and evergreen groundcover is usually grown for its brilliant foliage. Two color variations are available – one form has brownish red and green leaves with shadings of pink; the other has green and yellow leaves. The flowers of this plant are very insignificant, bearing small bracts on a single stalk. These are best cut off, to allow the plant to concentrate on it’s foliage. An attractive border plant or groundcover. About 10cm high, 1m spread.
Although Alternanthera can usually only be found during the warmer months in nurseries, it can be grown all year round. Grows best in full sun and in good soil this plant will respond handsomely. Fertilizing should be done with a water soluble variety so as not to burn the foliage. Can be clipped occassionally to form a neat low edging.
Propagation can be done by dividing larger plants during the cooler months of the year. Suitable for all climates with tempereture 17 – 28C (62 – 8 F), growing rate: slow.
Species and varieties:
Alternanthera dentata Ruby
Alternanthera ficoidea
Alternanthera Snow Ball