Hemigraphis
Hemigraphis alternata, also known as the Kerala or Indian violet, is a species of flowering plant in the Acanthaceae family. It is an evergreen perennial with wavy, purple-brown to bright greenish-purple leaves that have an attractive purplish hue. A low-growing, creeping plant, Hemigraphis alternata is often used as a groundcover in gardens and landscapes. It also makes a great houseplant and can be grown in a hanging basket or wall planter, with its foliage cascading down. Basic care for this plant is easy, as well as rewarding.
Hemigraphis alternata prefers moist soil but it is important not to let the soil become too soggy or dry. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil has become dry. During the summer months, water more often, using a spray bottle to mist the foliage. If you’re unsure if the soil is dry or not, you can check the leaves—if the leaves feel soft and flexible, it’s a sign of too much water, if they feel brittle and dry then it’s a sign that the plant needs water.
Hemigraphis alternata prefers bright indirect light and prefers to be protected from direct sunlight spots. Morning sun and late afternoon sun should be fine, more bright light is ok for short periods. The plant can also survive in low-light conditions, but its growth rate will be slower.
Hemigraphis alternata prefers temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C). It’s hardy down to 50°F (10°C), so it can survive the winter as long as temperatures don’t drop too low.
Hemigraphis alternata prefers high humidity as this will help keep your plant’s leaves looking their best. If growing indoors, misting the foliage on a regular basis will help replicate the humid conditions this plant likes. If your home tends to become hot and dry during summer, group your plant with other plants in the same room to help create a more tropical and humid microclimate.
Hemigraphis alternata prefers light, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. A good mixture is two parts potting mix and one part perlite to help with drainage. Make sure the potting soil you’re using is well-aerated so the plant has enough oxygen.
Fertilize your Hemigraphis alternata once every two weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer. In the winter months, fertilize only once a month. Make sure to dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to prevent burning the roots. Suitable fertilizers include fish emulsion, liquid seaweed, or an all-purpose fertilizer.
Hemigraphis alternata is susceptible to common houseplant pests such as aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. If you notice any of these pests on your plant, you should treat them immediately. Taking your plant outside and spraying it with a hose can help reduce the infestation, and you can also make an insecticidal soap with neem oil to treat the plant. To make insecticidal soap, mix 2 tablespoons of neem oil with 1 tablespoon of liquid soap and 1 quart of water, then spray directly onto the affected areas of the plant until they are thoroughly covered with the solution.
Repot Hemigraphis alternata every 2-3 years in the spring when the plant becomes root-bound. Make sure to choose a pot with good drainage holes and a potting mix that is slightly acidic. It’s also important to water the plant after repotting to help it settle in its new home, but make sure not to overwater.
Hemigraphis alternata does not require pruning. If you do feel the need to prune, the best time is in spring before new growth appears. Make sure to use sterilized pruning shears so as not to spread disease, and make sure to water the plant after pruning to promote new growth and healing.
Hemigraphis alternata does not require any mulching. However, if you are growing it outdoors, you can spread a thin layer of peat moss or other organic mulch around the base of the plant to help keep the soil moist and suppress weeds.
Hemigraphis alternata can be propagated from stem cuttings. In spring or summer, take four to six inch cuttings with a sharp knife, making sure that each cutting has at least two sets of leaves. Remove the lower set of leaves and place the cuttings in moist potting soil in a spot that is moderately lit. You can also lightly mist the soil to promote rooting. Rooting hormone is not necessary but can help speed up the rooting process.
Hemigraphis alternata does not need any support. It is a low-growing, creeping plant and should not require any additional support.
Hemigraphis alternata does not require a rest period and will continue to grow all year round. However, if you are growing it indoors, you may want to reduce the amount of water in the winter months to mimic its natural growing cycle in nature.
Hemigraphis alternata is not toxic to pets, but it should be kept away from animals and children as it may cause skin irritation.