Also known as Java Velvet Plant · Purple Passion · Purple Passion Plant
Velvetplant (Gynura aurantiaca) is a striking houseplant prized for its velvety, purple-hued foliage and bright orange, star-shaped flowers when mature.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Bright, indirect light is best. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Average room temperatures between 18-24°C are ideal. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Indoor, Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season, reduce in cooler months.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while severe underwatering will cause wilting and leaf drop.
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot, then discard any excess water.
Prune regularly to maintain a bushy shape and encourage fuller growth. Pinch back the tips of stems to prevent legginess. Remove any yellow or dead leaves promptly to improve air circulation and plant health.
Heavy pruning can be done in spring.
Velvetplant is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy stems, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant the cuttings in moist potting mix and keep them in a warm, bright location.
Repot your Velvetplant every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Spring is the ideal time to repot to give the plant a good start for the growing season.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Velvetplant (Gynura aurantiaca)
Where Velvetplant (Gynura aurantiaca) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Gynura |
| Species | Gynura aurantiaca |
Similar in genus Gynura
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
