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Illustration pending
At a Glance
Light bright indirect to some direct sun
Water Every 7 days
Humidity 35–70%
Temp. 10–32 °C
Habit Trailing
Growth Fast
Care Easy
Height 20–40 cm
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cultivar Commelinaceae ◈ Community
Tradescantia pallida 'Purple Heart'
Purple Heart · Purple Queen · Purple Spiderwort
(trad-es-KAN-tee-uh PAL-id-uh PUR-pul hart)
At a Glance
Light bright indirect to some direct sun
Water Every 7 days
Humidity 35–70%
Temp. 10–32 °C
Habit Trailing
Growth Fast
Care Easy
Height 20–40 cm
Add to your collection
Origin & Habitat
Cultivar; species native to Mexico
Description
Long narrow succulent leaves in deep purple to violet; small pinkish-purple three-petalled flowers may appear.
Trailing to sprawling succulent stems that branch and root easily at nodes.
Botanical Notes
Species epithet means pale; cultivar/common name refers to the deep purple foliage.
POWO supports Tradescantia pallida as an accepted species native to Mexico; Purple Heart is treated here as a common horticultural cultivar/selection name.
Care Guide
More light gives stronger purple colour. Let the mix dry partially between waterings; pinch back to prevent long bare stems.
Repotting
Use a freely draining mix. Refresh by sticking pruned cuttings back into the pot.
Feeding
Monthly light feeding in active growth
Common Problems
- Greenish weak colour in low light; snapped brittle stems; legginess; rot in wet cold soil.
Notes & Curiosities
- Often grown outdoors as a groundcover in warm regions, but it also makes a tough bright-window houseplant.
⚠ Toxicity: toxic to pets, toxic to humans. Sap may irritate skin; ingestion may cause mild stomach upset.
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