‹ All plantsPurple Waffle Plant
Strobilanthes alternata
Patterned Tropical Foliage (Fittonia, Hypoestes, Hemigraphis)Mood Meter: Needs a Little Love
Also called: Red Ivy
Scientific Name History
Current accepted name: Strobilanthes alternata
Previously or alternatively classified as: - Hemigraphis alternata
- Hemigraphis colorata
Heavily textured, puckered leaves that are green to metallic on top with prominent purple undersides; low spreading growth
Growth habit: low-growing, spreading, trailing. Drought tolerance: low.
Loss of the purple coloring points toward insufficient light. Weigh wilting alongside substrate moisture rather than assuming underwatering by itself.
Plant Mood Meter: Needs a Little Love
The plant is manageable, but it looks best with fairly consistent moisture, moderate humidity, and enough light to maintain purple coloration.
Care guide
Bright indirect light. Direct sun: Avoid harsh direct sun.
Keep moderately consistent moisture while allowing the surface to begin drying; avoid both severe drought and waterlogging.
Airy, moisture-retentive tropical mix with reliable drainage.
Moderate humidity is helpful.
No support needed; it naturally spreads and trails.
Problems Planticist can help with UnderwateringOverwatering / poor aerationRoot rot / impaired rootsExcess light / sun scorchInsufficient light (etiolation)Normal lower-leaf senescenceLow-humidity stressPest damageFertilizer / mineral salt buildup
