Alternanthera dentata (Joseph’s Coat / Purple Alternanthera)
Alternanthera dentata (Joseph’s Coat / Purple Alternanthera)
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Alternanthera dentata, commonly known as Joseph’s Coat, is a vibrant evergreen perennial grown for its striking foliage in shades of deep purple to burgundy. Its dense, bushy growth habit makes it an excellent choice for adding bold colour contrast in garden beds, borders, and container displays.
While its small white flowers are considered insignificant, the plant’s ornamental value lies entirely in its richly coloured leaves, which maintain strong visual impact throughout the warm growing season. Often grown as an annual in cooler climates, it is low-maintenance and highly effective for mass planting and decorative arrangements.

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Mature height
0.3 to 0.6m
Mature width
0.3 to 0.6m
Spacing
0.3 to 0.5m
Evergreen/Deciduous
Evergreen in warm climates (grown as annual elsewhere)
Foliage
Deep burgundy to purple foliage with small white insignificant flowers
Flowering Period & Fruit Development/Harvest
Late fall to winter (ornamental foliage plant)
Sun tolerance
Full sun to part shade
Maintenance
Low, trim to maintain compact shape and encourage dense growth
Root System
Fibrous, shallow root system ideal for beds and containers