The “teddy bear plant” (Cyanotis kewensis or Tradescantia sillamontana) is a charming houseplant known for its distinctive fuzzy foliage. Its stems are covered with soft, tear-drop-shaped leaves that can appear chocolate-brown or silvery-white. This unique appearance makes it a popular choice for adding texture and visual interest to indoor spaces, often grown in hanging baskets.
Providing Optimal Growing Conditions
Light
The teddy bear plant thrives in bright, indirect light, such as near an east or west-facing window. Morning sunlight enhances leaf color, but harsh afternoon sun can cause scorching. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth and faded foliage color.
Watering
The teddy bear plant prefers its top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering leads to root rot, yellowing leaves, and mushy stems, while underwatering causes wilting and drooping leaves. Water more frequently during spring and summer, and reduce watering in fall and winter as growth slows.
Humidity and Temperature
Teddy bear plants prefer average to high humidity, around 50-55%. Dry air can cause brown leaf tips. Increase humidity by placing the pot on a pebble tray or using a humidifier. The ideal temperature range is 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations or cold drafts, as they can stress the plant and cause leaf drop.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining potting mix is crucial to prevent water from sitting around the roots. A suitable mix includes general potting soil amended with perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage. Use a pot with drainage holes. Repotting is necessary when the plant becomes root-bound, usually every few years during the active growing season.
Fertilizing
Fertilize during spring and summer to support healthy growth. Apply a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, diluted to half strength. This prevents over-fertilization, which can cause yellowing, leggy growth, or fertilizer burn. Reduce or stop fertilization entirely during fall and winter when growth slows.
Pruning and Shaping
Pruning helps maintain the teddy bear plant’s shape and encourages bushier growth. Pinching off growing tips promotes a compact habit and prevents legginess. Remove any dead, yellowing, or leggy stems to improve health and appearance. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears for precise cuts, aiding quick recovery and minimizing stress. Pruning also manages the length of trailing stems in hanging baskets.
Addressing Common Issues
Common issues often signal a need for adjusted care. Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Wilting leaves suggest underwatering or root rot from excessive moisture. Pests like spider mites and mealybugs may infest the plant, especially in dry conditions. If pests are observed, isolate the plant and treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Proper light, watering, and air circulation prevent many problems.
Propagating Your Plant
Propagating the teddy bear plant is simple using stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and cut a 3-4 inch section with at least two or three leaf nodes. Remove leaves from the bottom, then allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for one to three days to prevent rot. Place the cutting in a jar of water, changing water weekly, or directly into a well-draining potting mix. Once roots develop or new growth appears, move the young plant to its own pot.