Alternanthera caracasana, commonly known as Caracas joyweed or large purple alternanthera, is a flowering plant in the family Amaranthaceae. Native to South America, it has been introduced globally as an ornamental plant.
Caracas joyweed exhibits a sprawling growth habit and can reach up to 1 meter in height. Its ovate leaves are dark green with striking purple undersides, giving the plant its distinctive appearance. The small white flowers are not particularly showy.
This species thrives in moist soils and can adapt to both full sun and partial shade conditions. It is often used as an ornamental ground cover or border plant due to its attractive foliage.
Beyond its ornamental value, Alternanthera caracasana has been utilized in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, coughs, colds, headaches, and stomach disorders.
Overall, Alternanthera caracasana is an appealing ornamental plant with unique foliage that can enhance any garden or landscape design, while also offering potential medicinal benefits.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Alternanthera
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10
- Mature Height
- 91 cm
- Mature Spread
- 91 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Blue
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow, Green
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Fall, Early winter
- Native Area
- Honduras, Mexico, Guatemala, Peru, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Colombia, Bahamas, Cuba, Argentina, Haiti, Bolivia, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Costa Rica
Other names.
