Joseph's Coat (Alternanthera dentata)

Joseph's Coat

Alternanthera dentata

Vibrant foliage paints gardens with warm hues. Compact herbaceous annual with striking variegated leaves; common name: Joseph's Coat.

Full sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; intense direct sunlight enhances foliage color intensity
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperatures; protect from frost as temperatures below 10°C may cause leaf damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval to lanceolate leaves with serrated margins; colors range from burgundy to bronze, often with pink or cream variegation
  • Flower: Tiny, inconspicuous white or pale pink globular inflorescences
  • Stem: Succulent, branching stems that form tight, bushy mounds
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent foliage burn

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solid peels to avoid pest infestations
Pruning
  • Pinch back stem tips every 2-3 weeks to promote dense, bushy growth
  • Remove faded flowers and yellowing leaves to maintain a tidy appearance
  • Trim overgrown stems in mid-summer to refresh the mounding shape
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover, border plant, or indoor foliage accent