Magenta Leaf Plant, Lá Cẩm (Peristrophe roxburghiana)
Regular price $49.95Natural Purple Dye for Southeast Asian Desserts & Tropical Garden Beauty
The Magenta Leaf Plant, known as Lá Cẩm in Vietnamese and Tshuaj Kua Txob Liab in Hmong, is a perennial tropical herb celebrated for its vibrant magenta flowers and natural purple dye extracted from its leaves. This dye is traditionally used in Southeast Asian cuisines to color desserts like xôi lá cẩm (magenta sticky rice), bánh da lợn (layered rice cake), and chè (sweet soups) .
Beyond its culinary uses, the plant is appreciated for its ornamental appeal, with lush green foliage and striking flowers that attract pollinators. It's also known for its medicinal properties, used in traditional remedies to support digestion and respiratory health .
Why You'll Love It:
- Traditional Thai and Hmong medicinal herb for cooling and healing
- Bright magenta leaves add color and life to gardens and plates
- Used in teas, soups, and herbal wellness blends
- Fast-growing, lush, and tropical—perfect for warm climates
- Rare, culturally significant herb for collectors and home growers
Growing Tips:
- Plant in part shade to full sun with moist, well-draining soil
- Water regularly to keep plants lush and vibrant
- Pinch tips to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess
- Harvest young leaves for the best flavor and potency
- Protect from frost—grow as a perennial in warm zones or overwinter indoors
| Scientific Name | Peristrophe roxburghiana (syn. Dicliptera tinctoria) |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Magenta Leaf Plant, Lá Cẩm, Tshuaj Kua Txob Liab |
| Family | Acanthaceae (Acanthus Family) |
| Origin | Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand, Laos) |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous Perennial |
| Life Cycle | Perennial in tropical zones; annual in cooler climates |
| Food Forest Layer | Herb Layer |
| Mature Size | 1–3 ft tall and wide |
| Light | Partial Shade to Full Sun |
| Water Needs | Moderate; prefers consistent moisture |
| Harvest Season | Year-round in suitable climates |
| Time to Harvest | 2–3 months from planting |
| Self-Fertile | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Zones | USDA Zones 9–11 (annual elsewhere) |
| Florida Native | No |
| Propagation | Stem Cuttings |
| Seasonal Characteristics | Evergreen in tropical climates; may die back in cooler zones |
Wondering about your USDA Growing Zone and what you can grow? 🌎🌿 Learn how to find your Zone and grow tropical plants anywhere—Florida to Alaska! 👉 Read the full blog here!
We ship every plant plastic-free and planet-friendly—using compostable packaging, recyclable pots, and carbon-conscious shipping from start to finish. 🌎🌱👉 Our Commitment to Packaging & Shipping Sustainability
