Can I Root Purple Velvet Plant in Water?

Purple velvet plant, or Gynura aurantiaca, is a beautiful and unique houseplant that has become increasingly popular in recent years. With its velvety leaves and bold purple color, it is a favorite among plant enthusiasts. If you're looking to propagate your purple velvet plant, you may be wondering if it is possible to root it in water. In this article, we'll explore whether or not rooting a purple velvet plant in water is feasible, as well as the steps you should take to do so.

The Short Answer

Yes, you can root a purple velvet plant in water. This method involves taking a cutting from an established plant, placing it in a jar or vase filled with water, and waiting for it to develop roots. While it is possible, you may want to consider other methods of propagation if you are looking for a more robust root system.

How to Root a Purple Velvet Plant in Water

If you've decided that rooting your purple velvet plant in water is the right choice for you, there are a few things to keep in mind. Follow these steps for the best results:

Take a cutting: Take a cutting from an established purple velvet plant. Make sure to choose a healthy stem with a few leaves attached.

Prepare the cutting: Remove any leaves from the lower portion of the stem, leaving a few at the top. This will allow the cutting to focus its energy on developing roots rather than supporting leaves.

Place the cutting in water: Fill a jar or vase with water and place the cutting into the container. Make sure that the bottom of the stem is submerged in the water.

Wait for roots to develop: You should start to see roots developing within a few weeks. Keep the cutting in a bright, indirect light and change the water every few days to prevent stagnation.

Plant the cutting: Once the roots are a few inches long, you can plant the cutting in soil. Make sure to use a rich, well-draining soil and keep the plant moist while it establishes itself.

Other Propagation Methods

While rooting a purple velvet plant in water is possible, it may not be the most effective propagation method. If you're looking for a more robust root system or want to propagate multiple plants at once, consider taking stem cuttings and rooting them directly in soil.

To do this, take a cutting as described above and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Place the cutting into a pot filled with moist soil and cover it with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light. Within a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots and begin to grow!

In Conclusion

Rooting a purple velvet plant in water is a viable propagation method, but it may not be the most effective. If you're willing to wait a few weeks for roots to develop, give it a try! Otherwise, consider taking stem cuttings and rooting them directly in soil for a more robust root system. With a bit of patience and care, you'll be able to grow beautiful, healthy purple velvet plants for years to come.