Hemigraphis alternata cv. Exorica or Purple Waffle Plant is a horticultural variety bred from the evergreen, perennial, herbaceous plant Hemigraphis alternata. This species is native to Malaysia and Java and belongs to the Acanthaceae family (this family covers, about 2.500 species). Strobilanthes alternata is used as synonym to the Hemigraphis alternata. This cultivar features shiny purple leaves with a puckered “waffle” texture. Genus’s name comes from the Greek words ‘hemi’ meaning half and ‘graphis’ meaning brush (for one half of a brush) referring to the dense hair-covering on the filaments of the outer stamens. Specific epithet means alternating.

Purple Waffle Plant is a prostrate plant to 20-30 cm toll with purple-coloured leaves. It has showy grey or green with metallic luster puckered leaves with red, maroon, or purple underside. The stem is laid sideways, leaves are hairy and opposite. Tiny, five lobed, bell-shaped, white flowers grow from where the leaf meets the stem in spring and summer. The white flowers are tiny and short-lived, but when in bloom they make a stunning contrast to the dark, purple foliage.

Hemigraphis alternata cv. exorica is a tropical houseplant, best grown in rich, moist, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Indoors plant needs very bright but indirect light. If it gets too much direct sun, the leaves may bleach and show signs of sunburn on the other hand if doesn’t get enough light, may lose some of the rich purple colouring. Plant does not tolerate freeze. In cooler climates, it is often grown as an annual or in a container. Moderate pruning for cleaning up the plant may be required. When Purple Waffle Plant is not getting enough water, its leaves will look droopy and wilted. Propagation is done by cuttings.

Use in Landscape: Hemigraphis alternata cv. exorica is a delightful small houseplant that has colourful foliage, making it a lovely addition to an office or home year long. It makes a nice showpiece when planted in a clay or painted container. It is primarily valued as a ground cover for its colourful foliage. The plant is popular in the United States to use in hanging baskets for gardens. Purple Waffle Plant is suitable for a terrarium and or vivarium but it is not an aquatic plant, shouldn’t be submerged in an aquarium.

In Indonesia, Hemigraphis alternata is used to promote urination, heal haemorrhages, stop dysentery, and treat venereal diseases. Today plant is widely recognized for its wound healing capabilities.