Also known as Carb White · Joseph's Coat · Perrotleaf
Sanguinaria (Alternanthera ficoidea) is a low-growing, spreading plant with vibrant foliage, popular for its colorful leaves in gardens and as a houseplant.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun, but avoid intense afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow top inch to dry between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy and should be moved indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows, but do not let the soil become completely dry for extended periods.
Pinch back young stems to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. Prune established plants in spring to shape them and remove any dead or overgrown stems.
Regular pinching maintains a compact and attractive form, especially for container-grown specimens.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in moist potting mix.
Keep in a warm, bright location with high humidity until roots develop, usually within 4-6 weeks.
Repot young plants annually or when root-bound, typically in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years.
Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid excess moisture retention.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Sanguinaria (Alternanthera ficoidea)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Alternanthera |
| Species | Alternanthera ficoidea |
Similar in genus Alternanthera
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
