How to care for: Tradescantia

Tradescantia is a family of herbaceous and perennial plants. This plant family consists of sixty species, most of which are hanging. The Purple Flame is an exception to this rule, as it grows in height. The Tradescantia is an easy indoor plant. Position the plant on a spot with indirect sunlight and give it a sip of water once a week. You will be able to enjoy this special plant for a long time.

Medium light

Water once a week

Toxic

Air-purifying

How do you take care of a Tradescantia?

Location

The Tradescantia likes to be placed in a spot with lots of light. Not all species tolerate bright light well. It is best to place the plant in medium bright light. The Tradescantia prefers a spot next to a window on the west or east. A spot near the south is of course also possible, but make sure that the plant is at least 2 metres away from the window.

Watering

Tradescantia plants prefer a balanced level of moisture, not too wet nor too dry. Therefore, the best way to check if your plant needs water is to check the top centimeters of the soil. If it's dry, then you can water the plant. From spring to summer you can add some water every 5 days. From autumn to winter every 10 days is enough.

Plant nutrition

During spring until summer, a fertilizer every two weeks provides a boost to the Tradescantia. However, during the winter months, you shouldn't feed the plant any fertilizer since it doesn't grow during these months. The leaves turn yellow and die from over-fertilization.

Repotting

Repotting the Tradescantia isn't necessary every year. We recommend repotting the Tradescantia every 2 years. This gives the plant new nutrients and more room for root growth. The airier soil is also very good for the water flowing through. The best period to repot is spring.

Temperature

The most ideal temperature for a Tradescantia, commonly known as Wandering Jew, is typically between 18 to 24 degrees Celsius) It prefers a moderate temperature range and can tolerate slightly cooler conditions.

Pruning

Pruning a Tradescantia is not necessary for its growth, but it can be done for maintenance and control. Occasional pruning helps remove any old or overgrown stems, encourages bushier growth, and maintains a more compact shape. Trimming back excessive growth also prevents the plant from becoming unruly and helps promote healthier foliage. Clean and sharp pruning tools should be used to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant.

How fast does a Tradescantia grow?

If a Tradescantia is well cared for, it can grow up to 2.5 centimetres per day.

Is the Tradescantia a succulent?

Tradescantia plants originally come from North and South America. In nature, they usually grow upwards along large trees and plants. They can store a lot of moisture in their stems, but they are not succulents.

Can Tradescantia be kept outside?

In theory, Tradescantia can be placed outdoors. However, we don't recommend placing the plant outside. Do you want to move the Tradescantia outside in the summer? Let the plant get used to its new environment, and make sure it is as sheltered from the wind as possible.