Alternanthera dentata (Joy Weed) is originally from the tropical and sub tropical rainforests of the West Indies through to to Brazil.
Mainly grown for its red foliage Alternanthera dentata makes a great low growing perennial ( to 18 inches) border plant or container plant.
Alternanthera dentata ‘Purple Knight’ and Alternanthera dentata ‘Brazilian Red Hots’ are popular cultivars.
Care
Alternanthera dentata requires a moist warm sunny position and can easily be clipped back to maintain shape
Varieties
- Alternanthera denata ‘Purple Night’ is a ground cover plant that will spread through a garden bed, so if you do not have the space try growing it in a container.
It does have great foliage, and the hotter and it gets the darker the foliage. It is a plant that requires good moisture to grow well. - Alternantherea denata ‘Little Ruby’ is a more compact grower, still great foliage and still requiring protection from frosts.
