About Purple Velvet Plant
Purple Velvet Plant Introduction
The Purple Velvet Plant (Gynura aurantiaca) is a striking and unique houseplant known for its vibrant purple foliage covered in fine, velvety hairs. Native to Indonesia, this tropical perennial belongs to the Asteraceae family and is prized for its ornamental value in indoor settings.
The most notable feature of the Purple Velvet Plant is its leaves, which are a deep, rich purple color with a fuzzy texture that gives them a velvet-like appearance. The leaves are ovate to lance-shaped and can grow up to 6 inches long. The plant’s stems are also covered in the same purple, velvety hairs, adding to its overall plush appearance.
While primarily grown for its foliage, the Purple Velvet Plant can produce small, orange flowers in clusters. However, these flowers are often considered less attractive than the foliage and may emit an unpleasant odor. As a result, many growers choose to remove the flower buds to maintain the plant’s ornamental appeal and focus on its stunning purple leaves.
Purple Velvet Plant Care & Growing Guide
Caring for a Purple Velvet Plant (Gynura aurantiaca) requires attention to its specific needs to maintain its vibrant color and velvety texture. This tropical plant thrives in warm, humid environments with bright, indirect light, making it an excellent choice for indoor cultivation in many homes and offices.
When it comes to watering, the Purple Velvet Plant prefers consistently moist soil but is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It’s essential to allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings and ensure proper drainage in the pot. During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, reducing watering in the fall and winter when growth slows.
Maintaining high humidity is crucial for the health of the Purple Velvet Plant. Regular misting, using a pebble tray filled with water, or placing a humidifier nearby can help create the humid environment it craves. Additionally, feeding the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season will promote healthy growth and maintain the intensity of its purple coloration.
Soil
The Purple Velvet Plant thrives in well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic soil. The ideal pH range is between 6.0 and 6.5. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil provides excellent drainage and aeration for optimal growth. The soil should retain some moisture but not become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure can improve soil fertility and structure. A layer of mulch on top of the soil can help retain moisture and regulate temperature.
Soil problems to watch for include:
1. Poor drainage: Can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
2. Compaction: Restricts root growth and oxygen availability.
3. Inappropriate pH: Can affect nutrient availability.
4. Salt build-up: Often from over-fertilization, can damage roots.
5. Nutrient deficiencies: May cause discoloration or stunted growth.
6. Root boundness: Can occur if the plant outgrows its pot, restricting growth and nutrient uptake.
Fertilizer
The Purple Velvet Plant benefits from regular fertilization during its active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2-3 weeks.
Recommended mixture: Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of fertilizer per gallon of water.
Signs of over-fertilization include leaf burn, stunted growth, and salt build-up on soil surface. Under-fertilization may result in pale leaves, slow growth, and loss of vibrant purple color.
Organic alternatives include compost tea, worm castings, or fish emulsion. These can be applied monthly during the growing season.
This plant is particularly sensitive to phosphorus deficiency, which can cause purpling of the leaves’ undersides. If this occurs, use a fertilizer with a higher middle number (e.g., 5-10-5) to address the issue.
Watering
The Purple Velvet Plant prefers consistently moist soil but is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot, discarding any excess water in the saucer.
Water quality preferences: This plant is not particularly fussy about water quality, but if possible, use filtered or rainwater to avoid mineral build-up in the soil.
Signs of underwatering include wilting, drooping leaves, and dry, crispy leaf edges. Overwatering symptoms include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and a general decline in plant health.
Watering needs change seasonally. During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently. In fall and winter, reduce watering as the plant’s growth slows. Always check the soil moisture before watering to avoid over or under-watering.
Lighting
The Purple Velvet Plant thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon sunlight, which can scorch its delicate leaves. In low light conditions, the plant may lose its vibrant purple color and become leggy.
Signs of insufficient light include elongated stems, smaller leaves, and fading of the purple color. Conversely, signs of excessive light exposure include leaf scorching, curling, or bleaching.
If natural light conditions are suboptimal, consider using artificial grow lights to supplement. Fluorescent or LED grow lights placed about 6-12 inches above the plant for 12-14 hours a day can help maintain its vibrant color and compact growth.
Temperature
The Purple Velvet Plant thrives in warm temperatures between 60Β°F to 75Β°F (15Β°C to 24Β°C). It can tolerate slightly higher temperatures but may struggle in cooler conditions.
This plant is sensitive to cold and should be protected from drafts and temperatures below 55Β°F (13Β°C). Sudden temperature fluctuations can cause stress and leaf drop.
To protect the plant from extreme temperatures:
1. Keep it away from air conditioning vents, radiators, and drafty windows.
2. If outdoors, bring it inside when temperatures drop below 55Β°F (13Β°C).
3. In hot weather, increase humidity and ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
4. Use a thermometer near the plant to monitor temperature fluctuations.
Humidity
The Purple Velvet Plant prefers high humidity levels, ideally between 60-80%. This tropical plant thrives in moist air, which helps maintain the velvety texture of its leaves.
To increase humidity:
1. Use a pebble tray filled with water placed under the plant’s pot.
2. Mist the leaves regularly, but avoid oversaturating them.
3. Group plants together to create a microclimate.
4. Use a room humidifier.
To decrease humidity (rarely necessary), improve air circulation with fans or open windows.
Symptoms of low humidity stress include crispy leaf edges, brown tips, and leaf drop. High humidity stress is less common but can lead to fungal issues if combined with poor air circulation.
For this species, pebble trays and regular misting are effective and low-maintenance methods. A humidifier is the most efficient for maintaining consistent humidity levels.
Propagation
Propagating the Purple Velvet Plant is relatively easy and can be done through stem cuttings. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Choose a healthy stem with at least 2-3 leaf nodes.
2. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle just below a leaf node, about 4-6 inches long.
3. Remove the lower leaves, leaving 2-3 leaves at the top.
4. (Optional) Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage faster root development.
5. Plant the cutting in a small pot filled with moist, well-draining potting mix.
6. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment.
7. Place the pot in bright, indirect light.
8. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
9. After 2-3 weeks, gently tug on the cutting. If you feel resistance, roots have formed.
10. Once roots are established, remove the plastic bag and care for it as a mature plant.
Stem cuttings have a high success rate for this plant. The best time to propagate is during the growing season (spring to early summer). New plants typically establish within 4-6 weeks.
Potting
The Purple Velvet Plant requires a pot with good drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one when repotting.
Ideal soil composition: Mix equal parts peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil for excellent drainage and moisture retention.
Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Signs that indicate repotting is needed:
1. Roots growing out of drainage holes
2. Water draining too quickly
3. Slowed growth or nutrient deficiencies
4. Plant becoming top-heavy or unstable
When repotting:
1. Water the plant a day before to reduce stress.
2. Gently remove the plant from its current pot.
3. Inspect roots and trim any that are dead or rotting.
4. Place in the new pot with fresh soil mix.
5. Water thoroughly and place in a shaded area for a few days to recover.
Pruning
Best Time for Pruning
Spring or early summer, during the active growing season.
Frequency
As needed, typically 2-3 times per year.
Purpose
To maintain shape, promote bushiness, remove damaged or diseased parts, and control size.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Sanitize your pruning tools with rubbing alcohol.
- Identify leggy or overgrown stems to be pruned.
- Cut stems just above a leaf node at a 45-degree angle.
- Remove any yellowed, damaged, or diseased leaves.
- Pinch off growing tips to encourage bushier growth.
- Trim off any flower buds if you prefer to maintain foliage appearance.
Aftercare
Water the plant lightly and place it in a shaded area for a few days to recover.
Special Considerations
Avoid pruning more than 1/3 of the plant at once to prevent stress. Save healthy cuttings for propagation.
Blooming
The Purple Velvet Plant can bloom sporadically throughout the year, but flowering is most common in spring and summer. The blooming period typically lasts for several weeks. Flowers appear in small clusters of orange, daisy-like blooms. Optimal conditions for flowering include bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. However, many growers prefer to remove flower buds to maintain the plant’s ornamental foliage appearance.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
Common issues
Spider mites
Mealybugs
Aphids
Symptoms
Spider mites: Fine webbing on leaves, stippling on leaf surfaces
Mealybugs: White, cottony masses on stems and leaf joints
Aphids: Clusters of small, soft-bodied insects on new growth, sticky residue on leaves
Treatment
Isolate infected plants
Wash leaves with a strong stream of water
Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil
For severe infestations, use systemic insecticides
Diseases
Common issues
Root rot
Leaf spot
Powdery mildew
Symptoms
Root rot: Wilting, yellowing leaves, mushy stems
Leaf spot: Brown or black spots on leaves
Powdery mildew: White, powdery coating on leaves
Treatment
Root rot: Remove affected parts, repot in fresh, well-draining soil
Leaf spot: Remove affected leaves, improve air circulation
Powdery mildew: Increase air circulation, apply fungicide if severe
Special Features
The Purple Velvet Plant is renowned for its striking purple foliage covered in fine, velvety hairs that give it a soft, plush texture. This unique characteristic makes it a standout ornamental plant, perfect for adding a touch of exotic beauty and vibrant color to indoor spaces. Its ability to maintain its purple hue year-round, provided it receives adequate light, makes it a constant source of visual interest in any plant collection.
Plant Benefits
While the Purple Velvet Plant is primarily grown for ornamental purposes, it may have some air-purifying qualities common to many houseplants. However, it is not typically used for herbal or pharmaceutical purposes. Its main benefit lies in its aesthetic value, adding visual interest and a unique texture to indoor spaces, which can contribute to improved mood and overall well-being.
Additional Information
The Purple Velvet Plant is sometimes confused with other purple-leaved plants like the Purple Passion Plant (Gynura sarmentosa). While related, they are distinct species. The Purple Velvet Plant is generally more compact and has a more intense purple color. It’s important to note that while the plant produces flowers, they are often considered less attractive than the foliage and may emit an unpleasant odor, so many growers choose to remove them.
Life Cycle
The Purple Velvet Plant (Gynura aurantiaca) is a perennial in its native tropical habitat. In cultivation, it’s often grown as a houseplant and can live for several years with proper care. Its growth cycle includes active growth during spring and summer, with potential flowering, followed by a period of slower growth in fall and winter. The plant doesn’t have a dormancy period but may require less water and fertilizer during cooler months. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages bushier growth throughout its life cycle.
Are Purple Velvet Plant Poisonous, Toxic
The Purple Velvet Plant (Gynura aurantiaca) is considered mildly toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset. Symptoms of toxicity may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The severity is generally mild to moderate. If ingestion occurs, remove any plant material from the mouth and rinse with water. Contact a veterinarian or poison control center if symptoms persist. To prevent toxicity, keep the plant out of reach of pets and children, and consider placing it in areas where it cannot be easily accessed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my Purple Velvet Plant?
Water your Purple Velvet Plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. This usually means watering once or twice a week during the growing season, and less frequently in winter.
What kind of light does a Purple Velvet Plant need?
Purple Velvet Plants thrive in bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon sunlight.
Is the Purple Velvet Plant toxic to pets?
Yes, the Purple Velvet Plant is mildly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It’s best to keep it out of reach of pets.
How can I propagate my Purple Velvet Plant?
Purple Velvet Plants can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, and plant in moist potting soil.
Why are the leaves on my Purple Velvet Plant turning green?
If the leaves are turning green, it’s likely due to insufficient light. Move your plant to a brighter location, but avoid direct sunlight.
How often should I fertilize my Purple Velvet Plant?
Fertilize your Purple Velvet Plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
What’s the ideal temperature range for a Purple Velvet Plant?
Purple Velvet Plants prefer temperatures between 60Β°F to 75Β°F (15Β°C to 24Β°C). They are sensitive to cold and should be protected from temperatures below 55Β°F (13Β°C).
How can I increase humidity for my Purple Velvet Plant?
To increase humidity, you can mist the leaves regularly, use a pebble tray filled with water, or place a humidifier near the plant.
Should I remove the flowers from my Purple Velvet Plant?
Many growers choose to remove the flowers as they are often considered less attractive than the foliage and may emit an unpleasant odor. Removing them also helps the plant focus energy on foliage growth.
How often should I repot my Purple Velvet Plant?
Repot your Purple Velvet Plant every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Can I grow Purple Velvet Plant indoors
Difficulty
Intermediate
Size
Medium
Light
Medium
Water
Medium
Flowering
Yes
Pet Safe
No
Air Purifier
Low
Gynura aurantiaca botanical details
Common Name
Purple Velvet Plant
Other Common Names
Royal Velvet Plant, Velvet Plant
Botanical Name
Gynura aurantiaca
Native Area
Indonesia
Family Name
Asteraceae
Plant Type
Perennial
Genus
Gynura
Kingdom
Plantae
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Is there anything else you can tell me?
Why did the Purple Velvet Plant go to therapy? It had too many fuzzy feelings!