This perennial has trailing reddish stems that root at the nodes and forms a prostrate habit. It has silver-grey heart-shaped puckered leaves that are purple below and the small tube-shaped white flowers appear in summer. 

Hardiness zones 11 to 12

Hemigraphis alternata is naturally found from India to Java growing in tropical woodland margins in a semi shaded wind protected positions. It prefers a well drained organic rich moist soil and is drought and frost tender. 

Red Ivy is grown for its colourful foliage and spreading habit. It is planted along a front borders in small shaded or tropical gardens or used as a ground cover. It is suitable for coastal regions and establishing in 1-2 years. In cool climates it is grown as a container plant under glass and requirs bright indirect light in a humid position. It is also used as an excellent understorey plant and is fast growing. ID 409

Hemigraphis (hay-mi-GRĂF-is) alternata (ăl-ter-NAH-ta)

Acanthaceae (ah-kanth-AY-see-ee)
Acanthus Family