About
This trailing, evergreen perennial houseplant with fleshy, dark green leaves with dark purple undersides and purple stems. Tiny white flowers are produced intermittently throughout the year.
About the genus
Tradescantia can be trailing or tufted perennials with usually fleshy, evergreen foliage and distinctive, 3-petalled flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants
HabitSpreading branched, Trailing
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationUndemanding, easy-to-grow houseplant or use for summer outdoor displays planted in fertile, free-draining soil. Direct sunshine may scorch the leaves. Indoors grow in bright filtered light, planted using peat-free houseplant or multipurpose compost. When in active growth water moderately and liquid feed monthly. Reduce watering in winter. See houseplant cultivation for further advice
PruningPinch growth tips to encourage bushiness and fresh foliage
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings, using stem tips in spring and summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to red spider mite, mealybugs, aphids, vine weevil and thrips
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free