About
A half-hardy evergreen perennial, initially upright but becoming trailing as it grows, with unusually large, fleshy grey-green leaves that are heavily flushed with purple, especially in strong light. Small, pale lilac pink flowers are produced in summer.
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
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants, Bedding
HabitTrailing
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHanging basket, Houseplants, Patio and container plants
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow as bedding, in containers that can be moved indoors over winter, or as a houseplant. Plant in moist but well-drained soil or peat-free, loam-based potting compost, and position in part shade or bright filtered light; direct sun may scorch the leaves. Water moderately when in active growth, and sparingly in winter. See houseplant cultivation for more advice
PruningNo pruning required, though pinching out the tips can keep the plant bushy and compact
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings of stem tips in spring or summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to red spider mite, mealybugs, aphids, vine weevil and thrips
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free