Alternanthera Ficoidea "Ruby Red" 15cm Pot

Alternanthera ‘Ruby Red’

Botanical Name

Alternanthera ficoidea ‘Ruby Red’
(also sold as Alternanthera bettzickiana ‘Ruby Red’)

Common Names

• Ruby Red Alternanthera
• Joseph’s Coat
• Calico Plant

Product Description

Alternanthera ‘Ruby Red’ is a vibrant, low-growing foliage plant prized for its deep ruby-red to burgundy leaves that add instant colour and contrast to gardens and containers. It is an excellent choice for bedding displays, borders, edging, mass planting, and pots, providing long-lasting colour throughout the warmer months. Easy to grow and fast-establishing, this plant is widely used in landscaping and decorative garden designs across South Africa.

Size When Fully Grown

• Height: ± 25–40 cm
• Spread: ± 30–45 cm
• Growth habit: Compact, bushy, spreading

Best Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun to partial shade
  • Best leaf colour achieved in full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil
  • Improves with added compost or organic matter
• Watering: Moderate
  • Water regularly, especially during hot weather
• Climate:
  • Ideal for warm, frost-free to mild-frost regions
  • Treat as an annual in colder inland areas
• Maintenance: Low
  • Pinch back tips to maintain compact growth and encourage branching

Best Planting Season & Growth Cycle (South Africa)

• Best Time to Plant: Spring to early summer
• Active Growing Season: Spring, summer, and early autumn
• Seasonal Notes:
  • Grown mainly as a summer bedding plant
  • Sensitive to frost; protect or replace in winter in colder regions
  • Excellent for colourful summer displays