Tradescantia lavender, known as Inch Plant, Wandering Jew, or Wandering Dude, is a popular choice for indoor gardeners. Its distinct purple-pink foliage adds vibrant color to any space. Easy to care for and fast-growing, it appeals to many.
Understanding Tradescantia Lavender
Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Lavender’ is known for its striking appearance. Its fleshy, oval leaves display beautiful lavender hues, often streaked with green. Brighter light enhances its purple-pink coloration. This plant has a trailing or vining growth habit, making it excellent for hanging baskets or as ground cover in terrariums. It forms dense foliage clusters and cascades gracefully, adding texture and color.
Caring for Tradescantia Lavender
Light Needs
Tradescantia lavender thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Place it near an east or west-facing window, or a diffused south window. Insufficient light causes the vibrant purple-pink coloration to fade, resulting in duller or greener leaves. Too much direct sun can scorch leaves, leading to brown, yellow, or white spots.
Watering Practices
Tradescantia lavender prefers consistently moist soil but is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water when the top inch or two (2.5-5 cm) of soil feels dry. Watering may be more frequent in warmer months or brighter light, and reduced in winter. Allowing the soil to dry out completely can lead to wilting and leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining potting mix is essential for Tradescantia lavender to prevent waterlogging. A mixture of all-purpose potting soil with perlite or coarse sand improves drainage and aeration. The plant’s shallow root system benefits from a wider, shallower pot.
Temperature and Humidity
Tradescantia lavender prefers average room temperatures, generally 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can cause stress and leaf drop. While adaptable to normal indoor humidity, it benefits from higher humidity in dry environments. Increase humidity by placing the pot on a pebble tray with water or using a humidifier.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring and summer), Tradescantia lavender benefits from monthly fertilization. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength. Water the plant before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn. Reduce fertilization to once every two months or pause entirely during fall and winter.
Propagation and Pruning
Easy Propagation Methods
Tradescantia lavender is easy to propagate through stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem section, 4-6 inches long, just below a leaf node. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water or soil to prevent rot. Place cuttings in water until roots develop (2-4 weeks), or directly into moist potting mix. Pot new plants once roots are a few inches long.
Pruning for Bushier Growth
Regular pruning helps maintain the Tradescantia lavender’s shape and encourages a bushier appearance. As a fast grower, its trailing vines can become leggy. Pinching off stems directly above a leaf node promotes new growth. Pruning also provides cuttings for propagation, creating a denser display.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Fading Color
Fading of the vibrant purple-pink color often indicates insufficient light. When the plant doesn’t receive enough bright, indirect light, leaves may appear duller or greener. Move it to a brighter location with ample indirect light to restore its hue. Overwatering or underwatering can also contribute to color fading by affecting nutrient absorption.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth, characterized by long, sparse stems, often indicates insufficient light. The plant stretches towards a light source when light is inadequate. Move it to a brighter spot with indirect light. Regular pruning also helps manage leggy growth by encouraging branching and a bushier form.
Drooping or Wilting Leaves
Drooping or wilting leaves can signal several issues. Overwatering saturates roots, inhibiting nutrient absorption and leading to wilting. Underwatering stresses the plant, causing it to droop. Check soil moisture before watering to prevent these problems. Temperature stress, like cold drafts or excessively dry air, can also cause leaves to droop.
Pest Problems
Tradescantia lavender can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Signs of infestation include webs, white cottony masses, or sticky residue. Organic treatment methods include wiping affected leaves, using insecticidal soap, or applying neem oil. Maintaining appropriate humidity deters spider mites, as they thrive in dry conditions.