Purple Heart (Tradescantia pallida)

Sun Needs:

• Bright, indirect to full sun
• Best color develops in bright light or some direct sun
• Can tolerate lower light but may lose vibrant purple hue

Indoors:

• Place near a bright window with filtered sunlight

Bloom Time:

• Spring to summer
• Produces small, pink or lavender flowers
• Blooms are short-lived but appear frequently in good light

Size:

Height: 6 to 12 inches
Width: 12 to 24 inches or more, depending on trailing growth

Attributes:

• Bold purple foliage with trailing stems
• Fast-growing and easy to propagate from cuttings
• Can be used in hanging baskets, containers, or as ground cover
• Adds dramatic color contrast to indoor plant displays
• Mildly toxic to pets if ingested

Care Tips:

• Use a well-draining, all-purpose potting mix
• Water when the top inch of soil feels dry – avoid overwatering
• Tolerates average humidity but appreciates occasional misting
• Fertilize monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer
• Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth
• Repot annually or when root-bound

Pest watch:

• Look out for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs