Purple Plush
Gynura aurantiaca
Velvety purple-furred leaves that catch the light like velvet — a tactile, visually unique plant that loves to trail.
Overview
The Purple Passion Plant is unlike almost any other houseplant — its leaves are covered in fine purple hairs that give them a velvety, almost iridescent texture. Native to Java, it's a fast-growing trailer that looks stunning in hanging baskets. The purple color is most intense in bright light. It occasionally produces small orange flowers, but most growers remove these as they have an unpleasant odor.
Care Requirements
Light
Bright Indirect Light — some direct morning sun enhances the purple color
Water
Every 5–7 days — allow top inch to dry; avoid getting leaves wet
Humidity
Moderate (40–60%)
Soil
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite
Temperature
60–80°F (16–27°C)
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks during growing season
Detailed Care Guide
Light
- Needs bright indirect light for the most intense purple color
- Some direct morning sun (1–2 hours) deepens the purple velvet color significantly
- Avoid harsh afternoon direct sun which can scorch the fuzzy leaves
- Low light causes the purple to fade to dull green
Watering
- Water every 5–7 days — allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings
- IMPORTANT: always water at the base — never wet the fuzzy leaves, which can cause rot and brown spots
- Ensure good drainage — root rot is a risk
- Reduce watering in winter
Soil
- Use a well-draining potting mix with 20–30% perlite
- Avoid heavy soils that retain too much moisture
- Standard indoor potting mix with added perlite works well
- Repot in spring when root-bound
Temperature & Humidity
- Prefers 60–80°F (16–27°C) — avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F
- Moderate humidity (40–60%) is sufficient — tolerates average home humidity well
- Do not mist the leaves — the fuzzy surface traps water and causes rot
- Keep away from cold windowsills in winter
Difficulty Level
Easy — Purple Passion is fast-growing and forgiving. The main rules are: give it bright light for the best color, and never wet the leaves. Regular pinching keeps it bushy.
Extra Notes
Pet safe — completely non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. If your plant produces small orange flowers, you can remove them — they have an unpleasant smell and the plant looks better without them. The velvet texture is irresistible to touch, but handle gently to avoid bruising the leaves.
Pro Tip
Remove any orange flowers as soon as they appear — they smell unpleasant and the plant actually looks better without them. Pinch the tips instead to encourage more of that beautiful velvety foliage.
New to this plant?
Just Received This Plant?
If you just received a cutting or node: place in a small glass of water in bright indirect light. Avoid wetting the fuzzy leaves — they can rot if kept wet. Roots form in 2–3 weeks. Once rooted, pot into well-draining soil and water at the base. The purple velvet color will intensify as the plant settles in and gets more light.
If you just received a potted plant: unbox and place in bright indirect light. Water at the base only — never wet the fuzzy leaves. Expect some initial leaf droop for 2–3 days. Keep in a warm spot above 65°F. Do not fertilize for 4–6 weeks. The purple color will intensify as the plant settles in and gets consistent light.
Basic Care Instructions
Place in bright indirect light with some morning sun, water every 5–7 days at the base only (never wet the leaves), and maintain moderate humidity. Fertilize monthly during the growing season. Pinch tips regularly for a full, bushy plant.
Propagation
Stem tip cuttings root easily in water or moist soil in 2–3 weeks. Take 3–4 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, and keep in bright indirect light while rooting.
Common Problems & Fixes
Purple color fading
Increase light — the purple intensifies with more bright indirect light
Leggy growth
Pinch tips regularly to keep the plant bushy and full
Rotting stems
Avoid getting water on the fuzzy leaves and stems — water at the base only
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