A pair of Joseph’s Coat Plants in terra-cotta pots showing cool weather leaf color on a white background.
Overhead detail view of Joseph’s Coat Plants foliage color in warmer weather in a green pot.
A single Joseph’s Coat Plant in a weathered terra-cotta pot with coins on white background.
A side view of a trio of Joseph’s Coat Plants in green glass planter with coins on high key background.
A pair of Joseph’s Coat Plants in terra-cotta pots showing cool weather leaf color on a white background.
Overhead detail view of Joseph’s Coat Plants foliage color in warmer weather in a green pot.
A single Joseph’s Coat Plant in a weathered terra-cotta pot with coins on white background.
A side view of a trio of Joseph’s Coat Plants in green glass planter with coins on high key background.

Joseph’s Coat Plant

SKU: #JOSE102
Price
Regular price $13.00
Regular price $17.50 Sale price $13.00
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Description

(Alternanthera ficoidea). Your order includes 3 plants. The multicolored foliage of Joseph’s Coat will certainly elevate the aesthetic in your garden! This low-growing tropical native (plants reach 6 inches to 12 inches tall) can be grown as a perennial in zones 9 and warmer. Gardeners in cooler zones can easily grow it as an annual or a house plant, and plants can be dug up and overwintered indoors. Joseph’s Coat loves bright sun, rich soil, and regular watering. The plants will spread; in some places, Joseph’s Coat is considered invasive, but this is only a concern in climates where it is warm enough to grow year-round. The plants may flower, but the variegated leaves are the star attraction! Joseph’s Coat goes by several other names including joyweed and calico plant.

Growing Tips: Joseph's Coat thrives in warm weather with bright light, which enhances its vibrant foliage. Ensure well-draining, fertile soil and maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Regularly pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced or slightly nitrogen-rich fertilizer to promote lush, colorful leaves.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Alternanthera ficoidea
Life Cycle
Perennial in zones 10–11
Sun Requirement
4–6 hr.
Days to Maturity
70–85
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
12–18 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–85°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Joseph's Coat after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures remain above 60°F. In frost-free zones, it can be grown year-round. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Choose a location with well-draining soil and partial to full sun. Dig a hole the size of the root ball and carefully loosen the root ball and place it just below the soil surface. Backfill, gently press the soil, and water thoroughly. Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for spreading growth.

How to Grow

Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune regularly to shape the plant and remove leggy growth. In colder regions, treat as an annual or bring indoors before the first frost. Monitor for pests such as aphids and spider mites.

How to Save Seeds

  • Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots.
  • Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional).
  • Place cuttings in a moist, well-draining potting mix or water until roots develop.
  • Keep in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light.
  • Roots typically develop in 2-4 weeks.
  • Transplant once roots are 1-2 inches long.

FAQ

Can Joseph's Coat plants tolerate full sun?

Yes, Joseph's Coat plants can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler climates. However, in very hot regions, it benefits from partial afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorching and to maintain vibrant foliage colors.

How do I keep my Joseph's Coat plant compact and bushy?

Pinch back the growing tips regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. You can also prune the plant lightly throughout the season to maintain a compact shape and improve overall plant density.

Is Joseph's Coat deer-resistant?

Yes, Joseph's Coat is generally considered deer-resistant due to its colorful, slightly textured foliage. However, no plant is completely deer-proof, and browsing may still occur in areas with heavy deer populations.
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