Tradescantia(Wandering Jew - Purple)

Overview: Scientifically known as Tradescantia pallida and popular as Wandering Jew and Purple Heart, this beautiful plant is a must for terrarium enthusiasts. It is a stunning ornamental plant that is known for its vibrant purple leaves, fast-growing habit, trailing nature, and, above all– low maintenance. Tradescantia is native to Mexico and Central America and grows easily in both outdoor and indoor settings. Featuring features dark purple foliage with silver or pink accents on the underside, Wandering Jew adds a beautiful pop of color to any space. It can be found growing in hanging baskets or containers in households.

Appearance: Purple Wandering Jew features long, trailing stems that have narrow, lance-shaped leaves. The striking dark purple color on the upper side of the leaves and silvery and greenish hues on the underside make the leaves more attractive. While the foliage's color may vary, it usually stays vibrant and bold. Being a vining plant, Tradescantia spreads quickly and can be trailed wherever you want– over the edges of pots or trellis. During summer or spring, you may witness small pink and purple flowers; however, it is mostly grown for the purple leaves that stay vibrant throughout the year.

Light requirements: it ample light conditions. Also, under low light the plant grows slow and leaves turn green rather than purple. Additionally, you need to avoid putting it under direct sunlight as it will dry the plant.  

Soil requirements: Lightweight and well-drained soil is the best for Tradescantia. You can use the standard potting mix along with sand or perlite that will improve the drainage. While the soil should retain moisture, it shouldn't get soggy, or root rot may happen. Maintain the soil's pH between 6 and 7.

Humidity: Moderate humid conditions work wonders for the growth and development of Tradescantia. However, when the climate is dry, you may need to mist the plant or keep it over the humidity tray. It will make the environment humid, which works in favor of plant development. If humidity levels are too low, the plant might exhibit signs of stress, like browning leaf edges.

Watering: Water the plant only when the top soil seems dry to touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Always ensure that the pot has good drainage to allow excess water to escape, and never let the plant sit in standing water.

Air circulation: Good air circulation is important for Tradescantia' Purple Heart' to prevent fungal issues. While it doesn't need a lot of airflow, keeping it in an area with some ventilation will help avoid stagnant, damp conditions.

Trimming: You need to trim the leggy and overgrown stems of Wandering Jew to maintain its neat and tidy look and keep it attractive. Since this plant grows fast, regular pruning becomes necessary. It will also encourage bushier growth. You can propagate the cuttings by inserting them into the soil and expand your collection of Tradescantia.

Other requirements: Offer a balanced liquid fertilizer to Tradescantia pallida once a month. over fertilization should be avoided as it will cause leggy growth. Tradescantia' Purple Heart' can be repotted every 1-2 years, or when it outgrows its pot.