Joseph's coat (Alternanthera ficoidea 'Yellow Form') all-ter-NAN-ther-ah fih-KOY-dee-ah Genus:  Alternanthera 'Yellow Form' Alternanthera is an easy-to-grow, tropical plant with a fast-spreading habit and pointed, chartreuse-yellow leaves. It forms a mat of color from spring's frost-free date to fall's first frost. Like others of this genus, it makes a great edging, bedding, or container plant. In formal landscapes, it can be used in a knot garden. It looks great with dark-leaved plants. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Likes heat. Bright golden, pointed leaves. Compact growth. Care:  May be grown as a houseplant or overwintered in a greenhouse. Outdoors, plant out after spring's last frost and grow in moist but well-drained soil and full sun for best leaf color. Can take partial shade. Pinch back to retain compact form. Propagation:  Sow seed at 55° to 64°F in spring or as soon as ripe. Divide in spring. Take cuttings in late summer. Problems:  Generally trouble-free, although spider mites and Fusarium wilt may occur.

Overview

Height 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Fast Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Foliage Bloom Time Summer Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Ground Covers, Suitable as Annual, Indoor Plant Style Formal Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials