Hemigraphis alternata is commonly called the Burgundy Bliss Ivy Plant in recognition of its glossy burgundy-purple leaves. The Burgundy Bliss Ivy Plant makes a easy to grow house plant, especially in a small hanging basket. Ovate leaves (to 3.5 long) are glossy maroon to purplish-green above and wine red beneath. Small white flowers in terminal spikes bloom in late spring to early summer. Indoors the Burgundy Bliss Ivy Plant prefers a bright, indirect light window and keep evenly moist, not wet or dry. Trim as needed. Waffle plant (Hemigraphis) is a genus including approximately 90 species known by colorful names such as red ivy, red flame ivy, silver waffle plant, metallic plant and purple waffle plant. Named for their puckered leaves, waffle plants are tropical plants suitable for growing in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 and 11 and indoors elsewhere. At heights of only 6 to 9 inches, waffle plant is an effective ground cover, but it is also attractive in containers or hanging baskets. The plant is shade tolerant, but doesn't do well in salty sea air. Water your waffle plant whenever the top 2 to 4 inches of soil feels dry to the touch. Water the plant thoroughly, wetting the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches, by letting a hose run gently 6 to 12 inches from the base of the plant. Fertilize your waffle plant once every month during spring and summer, using a dry or water-soluble general-purpose fertilizer with a ratio such as 5-10-5. Apply the fertilizer according to the rate specifications provided on the label. Water the plant deeply immediately after fertilizing to prevent scorching the roots. Pinch the tips of your waffle plant whenever the plant needs a more compact, bushy shape. Pinch the stems just above a leaf, stem or bud.
