About
A species of evergreen perennial grown primarily as houseplants, with dark green leaves and stems which are both clothed in bright purple hairs, especially on the undersides. These appear mostly in winter. Flower heads have yellow, orange or red discs and have a strong odour but they do not produce ray flowers. Plants can grow upwards or recline against other objects.
About the genus
Gynura are evergreen perennials and sub-shrubs, some scrambling or trailing, with toothed leaves. The orange or yellow flowers have no ray florets
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitClimbing, Columnar upright, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Native toSumatra to Jawa
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow indoors in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright, filtered light. Train up a support, or pinch out shoots to keep more compact and encourage new shoots
PruningNo pruning required. Cut in spring or summer if plant becomes too large
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in late spring, or semi-ripe cuttings in summer, both with bottom heat
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free