How to Grow Gouchaultii

Gouchaultii

Iresine herbstii 'Gouchaultii'

shrub

Gouchaultii is a striking ornamental foliage plant known for its deep burgundy to almost black leaves with prominent crimson or pink veining. This tender perennial is prized for its dramatic color and texture in gardens, containers, and as a houseplant. It's a compact, bushy plant that adds bold visual interest to any planting scheme.

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Example Gouchaultii timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Gouchaultii
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
Harvest Gouchaultii
Around Apr 21

≈ 4 days after planting

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Gouchaultii dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Bright indirect light or partial shade; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but may fade in intense afternoon heat

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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter months.

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Spacing: 12-18 inches apart inches

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Days to maturity: 4-6 weeks to full ornamental appearance

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Planting depth: Plant transplants at same depth as root ball; seeds barely covered

Soil

Type: Well-draining, fertile loamy soil

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

Compost peat moss perlite for drainage

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 10b-11; grown as annual or houseplant in cooler regions

10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

Seedling

2-3 weeks

Tiny green shoots emerge with first true leaves beginning to show hints of burgundy coloration

Keep soil warm (70-75°F) and consistently moist. Provide bright indirect light. Thin seedlings to prevent crowding.

Establishment

2-4 weeks

Young plant develops deeper coloration in leaves; leaf veining becomes more prominent. Plant grows 2-4 inches tall.

Maintain warm temperatures and humidity. Gradually acclimate to brighter light. Begin light fertilizing weekly.

Vegetative Growth

4-8 weeks

Plant rapidly develops bushy form with rich burgundy to nearly black foliage and striking crimson veins. Reaches mature height.

Pinch growing tips regularly to encourage bushiness. Fertilize every 1-2 weeks with balanced fertilizer. Maintain consistent moisture.

Flowering

Sporadic throughout growing season

Small, insignificant red or white flowers may appear in spikes. Foliage remains the main ornamental feature.

Pinch off flower spikes to redirect energy to foliage production if desired. Continue regular feeding and watering.

Maintenance

Ongoing until frost or end of season

Plant reaches full ornamental potential with dense, colorful foliage. Maintains shape with regular pinching.

Continue pinching to maintain bushy form. Remove any leggy or weak growth. Provide consistent care to preserve vibrant coloration.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Coleus Caladium Sweet potato vine Impatiens Begonia Dusty Miller Celosia

Avoid planting near:

Aggressive spreaders Plants requiring dry conditions

Common Pests

Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity; isolate affected plants
Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; spray with neem oil; improve air circulation
Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators
Spray with strong water stream; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; introduce beneficial insects

Uses

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Container and Landscape Ornamental

Household

Gouchaultii is prized as a tender annual or perennial ornamental for containers, garden beds, and mixed plantings. Its dramatic burgundy foliage with crimson veining adds bold visual contrast and sophistication to any color scheme. [source]

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Houseplant

Household

This tender plant thrives as an indoor houseplant in bright indirect light, making it popular for homes and offices in cooler climates. It brings year-round color and tropical ambiance to interior spaces. [source]

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Cut Foliage and Floral Arrangements

Craft

The striking foliage makes excellent material for fresh floral arrangements, corsages, and decorative displays. The rich color and texture add depth and drama to both modern and traditional arrangements. [source]

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Tender Perennial Garden Design

Household

Used in mixed borders and tropical-themed gardens as a tender perennial that can be lifted and overwintered indoors in cold climates. Pairs beautifully with other foliage plants for layered color effects. [source]

Harvest Tips

Gouchaultii is not harvested for food. Pinch and prune regularly throughout the growing season to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Remove spent flower spikes and any leggy growth to promote dense, colorful foliage. Take cuttings in summer for propagation.

Fun Facts

🌱 Gouchaultii is a cultivar of Iresine herbstii, sometimes called 'Bloodleaf' or 'Beefsteak Plant' due to its deep red coloration that resembles raw meat.
🌱 The vibrant color intensity increases with light exposure, but too much intense afternoon sun can cause fading; partial shade often produces the richest coloration.
🌱 This plant is easily propagated from stem cuttings, making it simple to overwinter indoors or share with fellow gardeners.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Full Sun Partial Shade Perennial True Leaves

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