Tradescantia pallida aka Purple Heart

Tradescantia pallida, or purple heart, belongs to the spiderwort family. It comes from Mexico and grows in seasonally dry tropical regions. It has spread beyond its native range to many countries. These include parts of the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe. This tender perennial forms a low cover of trailing stems. Gardeners also grow it as an annual in cooler climates.

Garden plants reach about 0.7–1.6 feet [0.2–0.5 metres] tall. They spread about 1–2 feet [0.3–0.6 metres] wide. The thick, fleshy stems can rise, creep, or trail. They root at nodes but break under strong winds. Pale hairs cover the purple stems and pointed leaves. The leaves grow in an alternate, spiral pattern along stems. Each leaf has a sheath that wraps around the stem. Rolled edges give the leaves a shallow trough shape. Leaves reach about 0.5 feet [0.15 metres] in length. NC State describes purple leaves on both sides. RHS describes green upper surfaces with purple undersides.

Flowers appear in summer, with NC State noting midsummer bloom. Pink to pale purple flowers cluster at the stem tips. Each has three petals and bright yellow stamens. A flower lasts for just one day. The blooms measure about 0.07–0.1 feet [0.02–0.03 metres] across. The fruit is a small, smooth capsule. Purple leaves and stems provide much of its garden interest. It suits borders, slopes, rock gardens, and beds. Trailing growth also suits pots and hanging baskets indoors.

Use moist soil that drains well and contains organic matter. RHS lists sandy and loamy soils across the pH range. NC State supports sun or part shade for outdoor plants. Sun deepens leaf colour, while shade can bring greener tones. RHS favours filtered light and warns that sun may scorch leaves. Water during growth, then reduce watering in winter. The plant tolerates some drought, salt, and dry soil. USDA zones 10–11 suit it; RHS rates it H1C. Bring pots indoors for winter in cooler regions.

Pinching stem tips helps produce fuller growth. Stem cuttings offer a way to grow new plants. It can spread too freely within garden beds. RHS reports few diseases, but several pests may attack. These include mites, aphids, mealybugs, thrips, and vine weevils. Slugs, snails, and caterpillars may eat outdoor plants. Eating the plant can irritate mouths and stomachs. Sap and leaves can also irritate skin. These risks apply to both people and pets.