How to Grow Alternanthera dentata 'Burgundy'
Alternanthera dentata 'Burgundy'
Alternanthera dentata 'Burgundy'
shrubAlternanthera dentata 'Burgundy' is a stunning ornamental foliage plant prized for its deep burgundy to purple-red leaves with contrasting lighter veining. This tender perennial shrub is commonly grown as an annual in cooler climates and is popular for borders, containers, and tropical gardens. The compact, bushy habit and vibrant coloration make it an excellent choice for adding dramatic color to garden designs.
When should you plant Alternanthera dentata 'Burgundy' in your zone?
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Example Alternanthera dentata 'Burgundy' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Alternanthera dentata 'Burgundy'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Alternanthera dentata 'Burgundy'
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; grown as an annual in zones 3-9a
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Get my Alternanthera dentata 'Burgundy' timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with pale green leaves emerging; very tender and delicate
Maintain high humidity and consistent moisture; provide warm temperatures (70-80°F); use grow lights if indoors; handle carefully to avoid damage
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops bushy habit with increasing leaf production; burgundy coloration begins to intensify
Pinch growing tips regularly to encourage branching and fuller shape; apply balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks; ensure adequate light for color development
Establishment
4-6 weeksPlant reaches desired size with dense foliage and rich burgundy coloring throughout; small inconspicuous flowers may appear
Continue pinching if additional fullness desired; maintain consistent watering; reduce nitrogen to prevent leggy growth; monitor for pests
Maintenance
Ongoing until frost/end of seasonMature plant maintains compact, colorful form; minimal flowering (insignificant cream or white spikes)
Prune to maintain shape and prevent legginess; fertilize monthly with balanced or slightly lower nitrogen formula; deadhead insignificant flowers if desired; increase water frequency in containers
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity; regular monitoring
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with insecticidal soap; isolate infested plants
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
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Spray with water; use insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
Uses
Container & Tropical Gardening
HouseholdAlternanthera 'Burgundy' is exceptionally popular for container gardens, mixed borders, and tropical-style landscapes where its deep burgundy foliage provides striking color contrast. [source]
Floral Arrangements & Plant Design
CraftThe colorful foliage is often used in floral designs, tropical arrangements, and landscape color schemes to add depth and visual interest without relying on flowers. [source]
Garden Aesthetics & Pollinator Support
WildlifeWhile primarily grown for foliage, the insignificant flowers may attract small pollinators and beneficial insects, making it useful in gardens that combine aesthetics with ecological value. [source]
Edging & Border Plant
HouseholdThe compact, bushy growth habit makes it ideal for garden borders, edging beds, and creating clean lines in landscape design with its rich color accent. [source]
Harvest Tips
This ornamental foliage plant is not harvested for consumption. Pinch or prune stems regularly (every 2-3 weeks) to encourage bushier growth and maintain shape. Remove any leggy growth. Cuttings can be propagated in water or moist soil for new plants.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Alternanthera 'Burgundy' is native to tropical regions of South America and is sometimes called 'Burgundy Alternanthera' or 'Red Alternanthera' due to its striking foliage color.
- 🌱 The deeper burgundy coloration is enhanced by full sun exposure; plants grown in shade will display more green coloration with less dramatic red-purple hues.
- 🌱 This plant is related to the aquatic plant Alternanthera reineckii, which is popular in aquascaping, though the terrestrial 'Burgundy' variety is distinct.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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