Gynura aurantiaca.jpg. by LucaLuca. CC BY-SA 3.0. via Wikimedia Commons
CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Purple Velvet Plant Plant Care
Gynura aurantiaca DC.
Gynura aurantiaca, called purple passion or velvet plant, is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family Asteraceae. It is native to Southeast Asia but grown in many other places as a house plant. In warm regions, it is frequently grown outdoors on patios and in gardens rather than inside buildings, and hence it has escaped into the wild in Africa, Australia, South America, Mesoamerica, Florida, and a few other places.[2][3][4]
Every 7–10 days
Bright indirect light
60–80°F
50–70%
What Is the Purple Velvet Plant?
Purple Velvet Plant (Gynura aurantiaca) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Gynura genus. Purple Velvet Plant is native to Southeast Asia. Purple Velvet Plant is also known as Purple Passion Vine, Velvet Plant, Okinawa Spinach.
Purple Velvet Plant displays a compact, bushy growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 inches. Purple Velvet Plant produces small, daisy-like flowers in shades of orange or yellow.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Purple Velvet Plant?
Gynura aurantiaca requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Purple Velvet Plant Need?
Purple Velvet Plant thrives in bright indirect light light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–500 lux. Avoid placing Purple Velvet Plant in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Bright indirect light
100–500 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Purple Velvet Plant Prefer?
Gynura aurantiaca grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Purple Velvet Plant prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
60–80°F
Humidity
50–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Purple Velvet Plant?
Well-draining, fertile soil with added perlite for improved drainage. Good drainage is essential for Purple Velvet Plant to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Purple Velvet Plant?
Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Purple Velvet Plant?
Purple Velvet Plant can be propagated through stem cuttings, division.
Fertilizing
Every 4 months
During the growing season
Is the Purple Velvet Plant Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Purple Velvet Plant?
Purple Velvet Plant is susceptible to aphids, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Purple Velvet Plant Need?
Purple Velvet Plant grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. Native to Southeast Asia, Purple Velvet Plant is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Purple Velvet Plant as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 13a
Keep exploring plants
Purple Velvet Plant is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Gynura genus — compare its care with other Gynura species on PlantoScan.
Purple Velvet Plant thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.
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