Perennial
Alternanthera
Alternanthera brasiliana
Varieties We Carry
Joseph's CoatAlternanthera brasilianaLittle RubyAlternanthera brasilianaBrazilian Red HotAlternanthera brasiliana
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun, Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size1-3 feet × 1-2 feet
About Alternanthera
Alternanthera (Alternanthera dentata) is a tropical perennial from South America grown as a warm-season annual in Northeast Florida for its vivid burgundy, chocolate-red, or purple foliage. Its compact, mounding habit and intensely colored leaves — best in full sun — make it a staple for tropical bedding displays, borders, and container combinations from spring through first frost. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Fall, Winter
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Perennial
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Growth slows as temperatures cool.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Plant Alternanthera in full sun for the most intense foliage color; it tolerates part shade but colors become muted. Northeast Florida's full summer sun is ideal for this tropical foliage plant.
Water
Water regularly to maintain evenly moist soil; avoid letting plants wilt, which dulls foliage color. Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and reduce irrigation frequency in Florida's sandy soils.
Soil & Fertilizer
Performs well in sandy to loamy, well-drained soils. Feed monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to sustain vigorous color; pinch tips regularly to maintain a compact, bushy form.
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Common questions
Is Alternanthera a good plant for St. Augustine?
Alternanthera is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 1-3 feet × 1-2 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.