The Burgundy Tradescantia is a striking houseplant known for its deep purple foliage. Often called “Purple Heart” or “Purple Queen,” it adds a vibrant splash of color to any indoor space. Its ease of care and unique appearance make it popular.
Understanding Burgundy Tradescantia
The Burgundy Tradescantia (Tradescantia pallida ‘Purpurea’) is known for its dark purple leaves and stems. Its elongated, pointed leaves reach 7 inches long. It has a trailing growth habit, suitable for hanging baskets or groundcover. Native to Mexico, it produces small pink or pale purple flowers.
Caring for Your Burgundy Tradescantia
Light
Burgundy Tradescantia thrives in bright, indirect light. Place near a window with filtered sunlight for morning or afternoon sun. Insufficient light causes leaves to lose purple hue; too much direct sun can scorch foliage.
Watering
Proper watering prevents root rot and wilting. Water thoroughly, allowing top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which leads to soggy soil and root rot. During fall and winter, reduce watering as growth slows, keeping soil moist.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is essential. It prefers fertile, loose, free-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. A mix of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand ensures drainage and aeration. Use a pot with drainage holes for drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
It adapts to average indoor temperatures (65-75°F / 18-24°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C). It prefers moderate to high humidity (50-55%); in drier homes, increase humidity with a wet pebble tray or humidifier.
Fertilizing
Fertilization is unnecessary. During the active growing season (spring-summer), feed a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Apply monthly or every 2-4 weeks, diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing in fall-winter when growth is reduced.
Propagating Burgundy Tradescantia
Propagating Burgundy Tradescantia via stem cuttings is straightforward, expanding your collection or creating new plants. Select healthy 4-6 inch stems, cut just below a leaf node, and remove lower leaves to expose nodes.
Cuttings root in water or soil. For water, place cuttings in fresh water, submerging nodes, in a warm, brightly lit area away from direct sunlight. Roots emerge within weeks.
Alternatively, plant cuttings directly into a well-draining potting mix. Create a small hole, insert the cutting, and firm the soil. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged, placing in a warm, bright location away from direct sun. Soil-rooted cuttings may develop new leaves and thicker color more quickly.
Common Problems and Solutions
Fading purple color (often greener) indicates insufficient light; move to a brighter spot with indirect sunlight to restore hue. Leggy, sparse stems also signal inadequate light; regular pruning encourages bushier, compact growth.
Wilting or yellowing leaves indicate watering issues. Yellow leaves result from overwatering and soggy soil (root rot); underwatering also causes wilting and droopy leaves. Check soil moisture before watering and ensure drainage. Pests like spider mites and aphids can affect the plant; regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil addresses issues.