Alternanthera ficoidea aka Sanguinaria

Taxonomy

Alternanthera ficoidea, also known as Joseph's coat or Parrot leaf, is a species of flowering plant in the family Amaranthaceae. Native to the Caribbean and South America, it has been introduced as an invasive species in Palau, the Philippines, and Queensland, Australia. This frost-tender perennial is grown as an annual and comes in a range of sizes, from 2-inch dwarfs to 12-inch mounds of foliage. The leaves of Alternanthera plants are known for their vibrant colors, ranging from burgundy and red to orange, yellow, and lime green. Some species have bi-colored leaves, while others have a rainbow of color in a single plant. By regularly pinching out the growth tips, the plant forms a neat mound that looks fantastic in formal borders and can also be used in knot gardens. Alternanthera plants remain attractive but take on a more casual appearance when left alone. One rare species, Red Threads Alternanthera, is a houseplant that thrives with regular watering and well-draining soil. It requires direct light and should be less than a foot away from a window, and if repotted each time it doubles in size, it should not need added fertilizers. Propagation of Alternanthera plants occurs via seeds.

Common names

Sanguinaria, Parrotleaf, Sanguinarea

How to care for Sanguinaria

Difficulty

Sanguinaria requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Sanguinaria should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Sanguinaria loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Sanguinaria requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Sanguinaria will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Sanguinaria should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia