What is Tradescantia Purple Heart?
Tradescantia purple heart, also known as tradescantia pallida or wandering Jew, is a perennial flowering plant native to tropical and subtropical regions of Mexico and Central America. It is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world because it spreads rapidly via its creeping stems. The leaves are dark green above and purplish-red below with three distinctive veins running along each leaf. Its small flowers have white petals with pale pink centers and can appear from spring to early summer.
Propagating Tradescantia Purple Heart
Tradescantia purple heart can be easily propagated by division or stem cuttings. To propagate by division, simply dig up the whole plant and divide it into smaller sections using a sharp knife or spade; each section should contain some roots as well as stems and leaves. To propagate through stem cuttings, first use sterilized shears to make several 4-inch cuttings from healthy stems of your existing plants; remove any flower buds or foliage on the bottom two inches of these cuttings so they can root better when planted in soil later on. Place the cuttings in a shallow cup filled with water for about 3 days until their bases form tiny rootlets (this process may take up to 10 days). Once rooted, carefully transplant them into moist potting soil where they will continue to grow stronger over time.
Care Tips for Tradescantia Purple Heart
Caring for this lovely plant isn’t too complicated once you get it established – just remember that direct sunlight must be avoided at all costs! Provide filtered light instead such as bright indirect sunlight near an east facing window; however if you live in an area without much natural light then artificial lighting will do just fine too! Water regularly but don’t allow the soil to become soggy since this could lead to root rot; let the top inch dry out before watering again thoroughly every week or two depending on local humidity levels (more often during summer months). Fertilize lightly twice a year during spring/summer using liquid fertilizer diluted down according to label instructions – avoid overfertilizing which could burn tender roots! Finally keep an eye out for pests like spider mites which may require treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil solutions if spotted early enough before serious damage has been done!
