Purple Velvet Plant / Purple Passion Plant

Purple Velvet Plant – Details

Scientific Information

• Scientific Name: Gynura aurantiaca

• Family: Asteraceae

• Common Names:

  • Purple Velvet Plant , Velvet Plant , Velvet Senecio , Purple Passion Plant

📝 Famous for its deep purple, velvety leaves and bright orange-yellow flowers in summer.

 Plant Description

• Type: Perennial, trailing or bushy houseplant

• Height & Spread:

  • Height: 20–50 cm

  • Spread: Can trail 30–60 cm or more, ideal for hanging baskets

• Leaves:

  • Soft, velvety, deep purple foliage

  • Ovate shape with serrated edges

• Stems: Trailing, sometimes purplish, easy to root at nodes

• Flowers: Small bright orange flowers (rare indoors)

• Growth Habit: Compact, trailing or bushy; excellent for hanging pots or shelf displays.

Sun Light

• Prefers bright, indirect light.

• Can tolerate partial shade, but too little light reduces purple color intensity.
  

 Soil

• Use well-draining, light potting mix.

• Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

 Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist, but not soggy.

• Water when the top 1–2 cm of soil feels dry.
  

 Fertilizer

• Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–autumn).

• Avoid excessive nitrogen → can reduce leaf color and compactness.

• Stop feeding in winter.

 Pruning & Maintenance

• Regular pruning keeps plant bushy and full.

• Pinch back tips to encourage branching.

• Remove old or faded leaves to maintain vibrant color.

Uses & Features

• Decorative indoor plant with rich purple foliage.

•  Ideal for hanging baskets, shelves, or table displays.

•  Low maintenance and fast-growing.

• Adds dramatic color contrast in indoor gardens.

• Can bloom indoors with small bright orange flowers, though rare.