Redivy: A Tropical Ground Cover for Warm Climate Gardens
If you’re looking for an unusual ground cover with striking foliage, you might want to consider redivy (Hemigraphis alternata). This lesser-known tropical plant has been quietly making its way into gardens across warmer regions of the United States, offering gardeners something a little different from the usual suspects.
What is Redivy?
Redivy is a perennial forb – essentially a non-woody plant that comes back year after year. Unlike shrubs or trees, it lacks significant woody tissue and keeps its growing points at or near ground level. This Southeast Asian native has found its way to Florida, Hawaii, Guam, Palau, and Puerto Rico, where it grows as a non-native species that reproduces on its own in the wild.
Where Does Redivy Grow?
Currently, you’ll find redivy established in Florida, Hawaii, Guam, Palau, and Puerto Rico. It has adapted well to these warm, tropical and subtropical climates where it can grow year-round.
What Makes Redivy Appealing?
The main draw of redivy is its attractive foliage. The leaves often display beautiful purple undertones that can add unexpected color to shaded areas of your garden. Small white to pale purple flowers appear periodically, though many gardeners actually pinch these off to keep the plant focused on producing its lovely leaves.
Growing Redivy Successfully
If you’re in USDA hardiness zones 10-12, redivy can be a rewarding addition to your garden. Here’s what you need to know:
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Partial to full shade – this plant doesn’t appreciate harsh direct sunlight
- Warm, humid conditions year-round
- Moist but well-draining soil
- Protection from frost and cold temperatures
Care Tips
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
- Provide regular humidity, especially if growing indoors
- Pinch off flowers to maintain attractive foliage growth
- Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F
Garden Design Ideas
Redivy works well as a ground cover in tropical and subtropical shade gardens. Its low-growing habit and attractive foliage make it suitable for:
- Understory planting beneath larger tropical plants
- Container gardening and mixed planters
- Indoor houseplant displays
- Shaded border edges
Things to Consider
Since redivy is not native to the United States, you might want to consider native alternatives that provide similar benefits to local ecosystems. Native ground covers and shade plants typically offer better support for local wildlife, including pollinators and other beneficial insects.
If you do choose to grow redivy, be mindful of its ability to spread and reproduce on its own. While it’s not currently listed as invasive, it’s always good practice to monitor any non-native plant to ensure it doesn’t escape cultivation and potentially impact local plant communities.
The Bottom Line
Redivy can be an interesting addition to warm climate gardens, especially for gardeners who appreciate unique foliage plants and don’t mind working with something a bit off the beaten path. Just remember to research native alternatives that might provide similar aesthetic appeal while supporting your local ecosystem. Whether you choose redivy or a native alternative, the key to success lies in providing the right growing conditions and regular care.
