Purple Passion Vine

Water Purple Passion Vine on a consistent schedule, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soaking wet. Water the plant enough to keep the soil slightly damp, being careful not to overwater, which can cause fungal diseases and yellowing. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings and make sure the bottom of the pot is well-drained to avoid root rot. During the winter, water less frequently as the plant goes into a semi dormancy.

Gynura aurantiaca prefers bright, indirect sunlight, making it well suited to sunny windowsills. It is important to protect the plant from intense, direct midday sun which can damage the delicate foliage. For the best possible color and health, provide your Purple Passion Vine with 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight per day. During the winter it may be beneficial to provide the plant with a grow light supplementing its light needs.

Gynura aurantiaca prefers moderate temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C) and does not appreciate drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations. Maintain steady humidity levels of at least 40%, or mist the foliage regularly to mimic its humid natural environment.

Purple Passion Vine will thrive in a high humidity environment, such as a bathroom or kitchen. Periodic misting, especially with the introduction of artificial heat, can be beneficial. Grouping it with other plants is also a great tactic, as plants transpire in unison, helping to increase humidity levels in the environment.

Purple Passion Vine prefers a lightweight, well-draining soil with a pH of 6-7. For best results, use a combination of one part coco coir or perlite, one part compost, and one part potting soil. Alternatively, a soilless mix could also be used as its lightweight and well-aerating.

In order to provide good nutrition to your Purple Passion Vine, it is important to fertilize regularly. Use a balanced liquid or slow release fertilizer at half-strength during the main growing season (spring and summer). Make sure to follow the instructions on the bottle and dilute to about half the strength before application. For the best results, dilute the balanced fertilizer with water and apply it annually in March. During the winter, reduce fertilization or stop altogether.

Aphids, mealybugs, spider mites and whiteflies may become a problem in your Purple Passion Vine’s environment. Regularly inspect the plant to check for signs such as discoloration, wilting or circular spots. If you notice any leaf discoloration, especially at the tips or edges, it may be a sign of spider mites or whiteflies. These pests can be controlled in a variety of natural and organic ways. For mechanical management, use a cotton swab to remove mealybugs and aphids, or use insect soap to eradicate these pests. Neem oil is also an effective option to kill off pests and prevent further infestation.

Purple Passion Vine should be re-potted every 1-2 years in the Spring when the growth slows down. Use a standard, well-draining potting soil and choose a pot several inches larger than the current one. Be sure to repot your plant in a pot with drainage holes to avoid root rot. After replanting, water the soil lightly and leave it in indirect sunlight until the plant has taken root.

Gynura aurantiaca will benefit from regular, light pruning in the Spring or Fall. Prune the plant lightly to keep it compact and shapely as it fills out, and prune off any dead or discolored foliage if necessary. If the vine becomes leggy, simply prune it back to a smaller size.

A common practice for houseplants is to use mulch as it aids in providing even moisture in the soil and prevents weeds from growing. Using organic mulches such as shredded bark or compost is ideal as they help to maintain healthy soil microorganisms and worms, while also providing good drainage.

Propagation of Gynura aurantiaca can be done through stem-cuttings. Take a 6-inch cutting of stem from the parent plant, making sure to include at least two node with leaves. Remove any excess foliage from the bottom of the cutting. Root the stem in water and transplant it to well-drained soil when the root system is well established. Alternatively, you can also propagate the Purple Passion Vine through leaf-cuttings. Take a leaf from the parent plant making sure to include some stem. Place the leaf on a potting mix, and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist and wait for the plant to start growing, then transplant it in a larger pot when it takes root.

This vigorous, fast-growing plant may benefit from staking or a trellis to help support larger stems and keep the vine upright as it grows up. Be careful not to overtighten the stakes or trellis and provide enough space between levels of support to accommodate its growth.

Purple Passion Vine requires a period of rest during the winter when the growth slows down and flowering is not expected. During the winter, water less frequently, keep the environment mild and avoid pushing your plant with too much fertilizer. You will notice natural discoloring or leaf loss as the plant transitions during this period.

Gynura aurantiaca is not toxic to cats or dogs, however, it is best to keep this plant out of reach of pets and children to be safe.