Alternanthera dentata ‘Brazilian Red Hots’
Brazilian Red Hots is a dependable selection of the old–time Joseph’s Coat that grows with a mounded habit. The attractive, lively, hot pink and rose shades outlined foliage make it a delightful addition to any Texas garden. It’s an easy to grow and low input plant that prefers partial shade, but can tolerate the Texas hot summer heat, if planted early in the spring. However, its attractive foliage color is most vibrant if planted in intense sunlight. Once established, which might take a period of supplement irrigation in a well prepared soil amended with organic material, the plants are somewhat drought tolerant. Though not the biggest feature of this plant and often inconspicuous, ball shaped white flowers spring out above the foliage in mid–winter in regions where there is no or little frost.
Exposure: Prefers partial shade in hot regions, but will tolerate full sun well if planted early and can take more sun in the northern part of the state
Size: Height — 24 to 36 inches tall; width — 12 to 18 inch spread
Plant type: Annual in most of Texas as it is sensitive to frost; in frost–free areas it can be a short–lived perennial
Planting time: Best in spring after frost, but can also be planted in mid–summer or fall if watered adequately for establishment
Soil type: A well prepared soil amended with organic material with good drainage is best, but will tolerate poor soils
Suggested uses: Is an excellent stand–alone plant; be it planted as a mass border planting or accenting a repertoire of other popular Texas Superstar selections, such as Cora Vinca, Butterfly Pentas, Serena Angelonia and Baby’s Breath Euphorbias; it will also complement combination plantings in containers
Special notes: Plants benefit from being cut back lightly as days become longer in late spring for a vigorous flush of summer color and possibly again in late summer for fall satisfaction
For further information: New Texas Superstar introduced: Brazilian Red Hots