Overview

Alternanthera dentata is a bushy bedding in the genus Alternanthera, part of the Amaranthaceae family, with colourful foliage. Alternanthera dentata grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include bedding, containers and ground cover.

About

Alternanthera dentata is an Amaranthaceae bedding and conservatory plant valued for its colourful foliage. It forms a compact, well-branched mound suited to containers, bedding and ground cover. Plant in full sun on well-drained neutral loam in a south-facing, sheltered spot. Flowers appear between July and September.

About the genus

Alternanthera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Amaranthaceae. It is a widespread genus with most species occurring in the tropical Americas, and others in Asia, Africa, and Australia. Plants of the genus may be known generally as joyweeds, or Joseph's coat.

Wikipedia contributors, "Alternanthera", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Alternanthera

In the garden

Alternanthera dentata belongs to the Amaranthaceae and is grown primarily for its coloured leaves rather than for floral display. It suits bedding schemes, patio containers and sheltered ground-cover plantings where its dense form provides a clear texture contrast with broader-leaved neighbours. Give Alternanthera dentata a sunny, south-facing site with protection from prevailing winds; the plant performs best on a neutral, loamy, well-drained soil. It is listed H1b (tender) for the UK, so plants should be kept frost-free over winter — a conservatory or greenhouse is appropriate, or treat plants as seasonal bedding and replace or move them indoors before the first severe frosts. Positioning is straightforward: use it at the front of a sunny border, in mixed summer containers, or in sheltered beds where its foliage provides continuous interest. Expect the foliage to remain the main feature, with flowers appearing from July to September.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Alternanthera

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1b

Plant details

Alternanthera dentata size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Bedding, Conservatory Greenhouse

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Colourful

Suggested uses

Bedding, Containers, Ground cover

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Alternanthera dentata

Propagation

Seed, Cuttings

Pest resistance

Susceptible to aphids

Disease resistance

Susceptible to powdery mildew

Frequently asked questions