I told a friend about this site, and the next thing I know she's bringing a plant to me, asking if I can ask 'the plant people' what's wrong. I guess it has recently lost a whole bunch of leaves. Here's a picture. Can anyone help?

My guess is the soil is too damp/wet. I know what this is but cannot recall the name right now. It doesn't like wet soil though. Bonnie

Gynura sarmentosa

Ah, yes, gynura aurantiaca v. Sarmentosa, AKA purple passion plant. It likes sun and even moisture without ever being soggy. They're nice. The leaves will root. Stem cuttings will root. You a/o your friend can have as many as you want.

So if we dry out the soil a bit do you think it will put on a few more leaves?

How should I root this plant? Should I put it in water or dip it in some hormone?

Amber

You just take cuttings and put them into water ( remove the bottom leaves) you should have roots in no time. This is a very easy plant to root. My new Kitty just recently decided mine was her new toy. She pulled pieces up by the roots and played cat and mouse with it. I cut the bad bits off and stuck them into water, Viola! You can also pinch that leggy growth back, to encourage bushing of the plant.

Purple Passion Care

I had one of these plants years ago and gave it to my Mother. They thrive in bright light. Without it they become stalky or leggy. I also found with proper lighting the more brilliant the color. Good luck. Andi