About
A trailing perennial with lance-shaped leaves that emerge pink, becoming green; small white flowers open sporadically through the year, but it is not free-flowering.
About the genus
Tradescantia can be trailing or tufted perennials with usually fleshy, evergreen foliage and distinctive, 3-petalled flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse
HabitTrailing
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright filtered light; water moderately when in active growth using a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly, water sparingly in winter. Outdoors grow in moist, fertile soil in sun or shade
PruningPinch growing tips to encourage bushiness
PropagationTake softwood stem cuttings approx 5-8cm long at any time through the year, and root in cutting compost or water, planting up in peat-free, soil-based compost after rooting
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to red spider mite, mealybugs, aphids, vine weevil and thrips
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free