Purple Passion Plant

If you’re looking for a houseplant that makes a bold statement without demanding constant attention, look no further than the purple passion plant. With its vibrant, velvety purple leaves and easy-going nature, this plant is a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced plant lovers.

Its scientific name is Gynura aurantiaca, but it goes by many common names, like velvet plant or purple velvet. The most striking feature is, of course, its foliage. The leaves are a deep, rich green but are covered in fine purple hairs that give the hole plant an intense, shimmering purple appearance, especially under bright light. It’s a fast grower and can even produce small, orange flowers, though the foliage is the real star of the show.

This section covers everything you need to know about the plant’s origins and characteristics. Understanding where it comes from helps you replicate its ideal conditions in your home.

The purple passion plant is native to Southeast Asia, specifically Indonesia. In its natural habitat, it grows as a perennial, often in the dappled sunlight of forest floors. This explains its preference for bright, indirect light—it’s used to sunlight filtered through taller trees.

Key Characteristics to Recognize

Foliage: The leaves are ovate with serrated edges, covered in soft, purple hairs (trichomes). This velvety texture is what gives the plant its stunning color.
Growth Habit: It has a trailing or cascading habit, making it excellent for hanging baskets or pots placed on shelves where it can spill over the edges.
Flowers: It produces small, cluster-like flowers that are a bright orange or yellow. They have a unique, some say unpleasant, odor. Many growers pinch them off to encourage more leaf growth.
Size: Indoors, it typically grows 1 to 2 feet in length, but its trailers can reach several feet long if left unpruned.

Light Requirements for Vibrant Color

Light is the most important factor for maintaining that iconic purple vibrancy. Too little light, and the plant will become leggy as it stretches for the sun, and its purple hue will fade to a more greenish color. To intense, direct sunlight, especially hot afternoon sun, can scorch those delicate leaves.

The perfect spot is near an east or north-facing window. A south or west-facing window is fine too, but you should place the plant a few feet back from the window or use a sheer curtain to filter the harsh rays. If you notice the purple color intensifying, you know your giving it the right amount of light.

Watering Your Plant Correctly

Overwatering is the quickest way to harm your purple passion plant. It likes its soil to dry out a bit between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to check the top inch of soil with your finger. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it still feels damp, wait another day or two.

When you do water, do so thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Always empty the saucer underneath after a few minutes to prevent the roots from sitting in water, which leads to root rot. In the winter, when growth slows, you’ll need to water less frequently.

Soil and Potting Needs

This plant isn’t picky about soil, but it does need a mix that drains well. A standard, high-quality potting mix is usually sufficient. You can improve drainage by adding some perlite or orchid bark to the mix. This creates air pockets and prevents the soil from compacting to much.

Choose a pot with drainage holes. Terracotta pots are a great option because they allow the soil to dry out more evenly. You’ll likely need to repot your purple passion plant every year or two in the spring, moving it to a pot just one size larger.

Temperature and Humidity Preferences

The purple passion plant thrives in average room temperatures that are comfortable for you—between 60°F and 75°F (15°C – 24°C). It’s important to keep it away from cold drafts, like those from an air conditioner in summer or a leaky window in winter, as well as direct heat sources like radiators.

Average household humidity is generally acceptable, but it appreciates a bit of extra moisture in the air. If your home is very dry, especially in winter, you can boost humidity by:

Placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water (ensure the pot sits on the pebbles, not in the water).
Grouping it together with other plants.
Using a small room humidifier nearby.

Feeding and Fertilizing Schedule

To support its fast growth, feed your purple passion plant during its active growing season (spring and summer). A balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength, works perfectly. Apply it about once a month.

There’s no need to fertilize in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows. Over-fertilizing can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil and can actually damage the roots and leaves, so less is more.

Pruning and Propagation

Regular pruning is key to keeping your plant bushy and full. Without it, the stems can become long and bare at the base. Simply pinch or snip off the tips of the stems. This encourages the plant to branch out from lower down. Don’t be afraid to give it a good trim if it gets to leggy.

The best part? Those cuttings you just took can be used to make new plants. Propagation is incredibly simple.

Take a stem cutting that’s 3-5 inches long, ensuring it has a few leaves.
Remove the leaves from the bottom inch or two of the stem.
Place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring the leafless nodes are submerged.
Put it in a bright spot and change the water every few days.
In about 1-2 weeks, you should see roots forming. Once they are an inch or two long, pot the cutting in soil.

You can also plant cuttings directly into moist soil, but using water lets you watch the roots grow, which is fun and reassuring for new plant owners.

Common Pests and Problems

The purple passion plant is relatively pest-resistant, but it can occasionally attract a few common houseplant bugs. Keep an eye out for:

Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth.
Spider Mites: Tiny pests that create fine webbing, especially in dry conditions.
Mealybugs: White, cottony masses in leaf joints and on stems.

Treat any infestation early by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or using a spray of insecticidal soap or neem oil. The fuzzy leaves can sometimes trap dust, so gently wiping them with a dry, soft brush keeps them clean and helps with pest prevention.

Yellowing Leaves

This is often a sign of overwatering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule. Ensure the pot has proper drainage.

Leggy Growth and Fading Color

This is a clear signal the plant isn’t getting enough light. Move it to a brighter location with indirect sunlight.

Brown, Crispy Leaf Edges

This can be caused by low humidity, underwatering, or fertilizer burn. Assess your care routine to identify the likely cause and adjust accordingly.

FAQ About Purple Passion Plants

Is the purple passion plant toxic to pets?

Yes, it is considered toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It’s best to keep this plant out of reach of curious pets.

Why is my purple passion plant turning green?

The main reason is insufficient light. The purple hairs develop best in bright, indirect light. Move your plant to a brighter spot to restore its vibrant color.

How often should I repot my purple passion?

Repot in the spring every 1-2 years, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes. Only increase the pot size by about an inch in diameter.

Should I let my purple velvet plant flower?

That’s a personal choice. The orange flowers offer a interesting contrast, but many people find their smell unpleasant. The plant may also become a bit leggy after flowering. Pinching off the flower buds directs energy back into leaf growth.

Can I grow purple passion outdoors?

You can in warmer months, but it must be in a shady or partially shaded spot. Never put it in direct outdoor sun, which will scorch the leaves. Remember to bring it back inside before temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

With its stunning visual appeal and straightforward care requirements, the purple passion plant is a rewarding addition to any indoor plant collection. By providing it with the right balance of light, water, and occasional pruning, you’ll be able to enjoy its vibrant, velvety foliage for years to come. Its easy propagation also means you can share starts with friends, spreading the unique beauty of this remarkable plant.