A low, trailing plant grown for its deep purple leaves, which hold their color year-round in mild winters. It is surprisingly tough in Phoenix, especially in partial shade, and it fills in quickly in beds and containers.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the shrub, groundcover and succulent schedule in our Landscape Care guide. It wants steady water in summer; leaf tips brown when it goes too dry. Soil that drains well and holds some organic matter suits it best.
Pruning
Cut back old, leggy stems occasionally to keep it full, and trim edges to keep it from spreading where it isn’t wanted. Remove frost-damaged growth once the weather warms.
Cold
A freeze can collapse the leaves, but it typically returns from the stems and roots within weeks of warm weather.
Sun and color
More sun gives the richest purple. In heavy shade, leaves turn greener.
How our designers use it
Color in the shade
Its purple foliage brings color to courtyards and north- and east-facing beds where flowering plants struggle.
Containers and planters
It spills nicely over pot rims and pairs well with chartreuse, orange and silver foliage.
Under tropical plants
Our designers like it as a groundcover beneath sago palms and birds of paradise in lusher pool and patio areas.
Good to know
Sap
The sap can irritate skin in some people. Gloves are a good idea when cutting it back.
Spreading
Stems root at every joint, so it fills in quickly and can wander into nearby beds. A bed edge or regular trimming keeps it in place.
Around the pool
Soft and thornless, with little litter. Keep it out of foot traffic, since stems break easily.
