Alternanthera ficoidea
Light: Morning sun with afternoon shade in Phoenix; bright filtered light also works. Avoid intense summer afternoon sun, which can scorch foliage.
Water: Moderate to regular water; keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch begins to dry, checking containers frequently during summer heat.
Soil: Well-drained soil enriched with compost. Use quality potting mix in containers; avoid poorly drained clay and excessive salt buildup.
Mature size: Usually 6–18 inches tall and 12–24 inches wide, depending on cultivar.
Bloom: Small, inconspicuous flowers may appear in late summer or fall; flowering varies with cultivar and growing conditions.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen in frost-free conditions; frost-tender in Zone 9b and often grown as an annual or overwintered indoors.
Growth rate: Moderate to fast in warm weather with adequate moisture.