Alternanthera philoxeroides
Alternanthera philoxeroides · Amaranthaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant alternanthera philoxeroides: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, light to medium green
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn, discreet white flowers
- Adult size
- 20 to 50 cm in height, spreading habit
- Growth
- Very fast, vigorous
- Hardiness
- Tender, not frost-hardy (warm climate recommended)
- Origin
- South America, Paraná basin
- Soil type
- Moist to very moist, tolerates submersion
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate constantly moist to very moist, even partially submerged. Alternanthera loves aquatic or marshy environments. During active growth, water generously and regularly. Allow the soil to dry slightly only in winter if grown outside water.
Light
Place the plant in full sun or bright partial shade for optimal coloring and vigorous growth. The brighter the exposure, the denser and more colorful the foliage will be. It tolerates partial shade, but with slowed growth.
Soil and substrate
A rich, light, and well-draining substrate is ideal, enriched with organic matter (potting soil, compost). If grown in an aquarium or pond, fertile substrate (fine sand, fine gravel with nutrients) promotes good rooting. Avoid compact or heavy soil.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer regularly during the growing season (spring-autumn). In aquatic culture, a liquid fertilizer adapted for aquatic plants is recommended. Reduce or stop applications in winter.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch young stems regularly to encourage compact, bushy growth. Remove damaged or dead parts. Pruning encourages branching and prevents the plant from becoming straggly. You can prune it year-round, especially during active growth.
Diseases and pests
In warm, humid climates, watch for crown rot and fungal issues (mildew, mold). Ensure good air circulation to prevent infections. Inspect stems and leaves regularly. Extended periods of stagnant excess moisture increase the risks.
Did you know?
Alternanthera philoxeroides originates from the flooded regions of the Paraná in South America, where it adapts remarkably well to cycles of submersion and emersion. Its extraordinary ability to proliferate in aquatic environments led to its introduction as an ornamental plant in certain regions of the world, but it proved invasive in some aquatic ecosystems. It remains highly appreciated in aquarium keeping and marshy gardens for its rapid growth and decorative qualities.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SpinachSpinacia oleracea
- Strawberry bliteBlitum capitatum
- SaltbushAtriplex halimus
- Fat-henChenopodium album
- Atriplex prostrataAtriplex prostrata
- BeetBeta vulgaris
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.