How to Grow and Care for the Purple Heart Plant

The Purple Heart plant, also called Tradescantia pallida, is among those plants that grab you with its gorgeous purple leaves. It’s easy to care for and adds an attractive splash of bright color to your gardens and hanging baskets or even inside your home. If you’re interested in learning how to take care of this beautiful plant, continue reading. I’ll explain all you need to know about it!

What is the Purple Heart Plant?

The Purple Heart plant is part of the Commelinaceae family and is in Central America. It’s also known as Purple Spiderwort or Wandering Jew However, the official title is Tradescantia pallida “Purple Heart”. It is usually about 1 to 2 feet in height and width which is why it’s great for hanging baskets, containers or as a groundcover within your yard.
The most appealing aspect? Its beautiful purple leaves help it appear more attractive in any garden. And in summer months, it also blooms with tiny pink flowers. It’s fairly robust in zones 7-11, but it could be poisonous for pets as well as humans. Be aware particularly when you have pets around!

How to Care for the Purple Heart Plant

The care of caring for your Purple Heart plant is pretty simple if you remember certain things in your mind. Let’s take a look.

Light Requirements

This plant is a lover of sunlight! It is best when it gets the full sun or in partial shade, but it’s very selective. The more sun it receives, the more vivid and deep the leaves will turn. If it’s not getting enough sunlight, the leaves may change color to green. It’s not a problem however, if you’re looking for the gorgeous purple hue try to find the bright indirect light.

Soil Type and Watering

It is said that the Purple Heart is extremely chill about soil. It can thrive in virtually every kind of soil, including clay, sandy, loamy or silt. Make sure that it drains well, as soggy soil could cause root rot. It is important for the soil to remain moist, but not so wet.

It is important to water the plant frequently however, allow the soil to dry in between irrigations. This can help to prevent roots from becoming rotten.

Temperature and Humidity

Purple Heart plants like warm temperatures, typically between 60 and 85degF (16-29degC). They aren’t averse to a little bit of humidity, however when your home is dry, you can give the leaves a small mist from time to time to keep them satisfied.

Fertilizer

You don’t need to provide your plants often, but it will need a balanced fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks in the summer and spring. It helps to make it stronger as well, however be careful not to overdo it! Over-use of fertilizer could cause the plant to grow too quickly and become excessively fat.

Types of Purple Heart Plants

There are many different varieties of the Purple Heart plant out there:

• T. Zebrina: This type has leaves of purple and silver stripes. It is also known as Wandering Jew.
• T. Pathacea Another interesting variety with purple foliage.
• T. fluminensis The species has smaller and less vibrant purple leaves.

All of them require the same treatment, so no matter the type you choose you’re in for an experience.

How to Propagate the Purple Heart Plant

If you’re looking to grow additional Purple Heart plants, it’s very easy to grow the plants. It is possible to grow new plants by cutting stems. Here’s how:

1. Cut a healthy, healthy stem 4 inches long.
2. Get rid of the lower leaves and then place the cutting in water or a moist well-drained soil.
3. Let the roots develop (it generally takes a few weeks) and then move it in a new pot in your garden.

You may also split the plant’s roots in case the plant grows too large. Be sure that the new pieces have enough roots to last.

Pruning and Maintenance

For keeping your Purple Heart plant looking its best, it is necessary cut it back every now and again. Cut off branches that are damaged or sagging to make it more compact. Pinched the tips of new stems in order to encourage the plant increase in size and height.

Pruning Tips:

• In the spring, prune to ensure that the plant is strong.
• Remove dead or yellowed leaves to keep it looking neat and tidy.

Common Pests and Diseases

While Purple Heart plants are pretty robust, they may be afflicted with bugs such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. If you spot any strange spots, sticky things or bugs on your leaves then it’s time to get rid of the plant.

To eliminate insects, wash the leaves lightly with a mixture of mild soap and water. Do not use harsh chemicals because they could harm your plant.

How to Get the Purple Heart Plant to Bloom

If you’d like to see your Purple Heart to bloom (those adorable pink flowers) Be patient! They bloom most often in summer. However, if you provide your plant with the proper treatment, you will be able to help more flowers appear.

Tips for Blooming:

• Be sure to get plenty of sun.
• Push the stems back to encourage the growth of more flowers.
• Make sure the soil is moist, but well-drained.

Solutions to Common Problems

Here are some things that could be wrong on Your Purple Heart plant and how to correct these issues:

Yellow Leaves

If your leaves turn yellow, it could indicate that the plant is overwatered or requires more nutrients. Inspect the soil, and provide it with a well-balanced fertilizer.

Browning Leaves

In the event that edges on leaves become brown It could be an indication of the plant being submerged or getting too much sun. It is important to water the plant frequently and ensure it’s not exposed to direct sunlight for long.

Green Leaves

If the leaves begin to lose their purple hue and change color It’s likely that it’s not getting enough light. Change it to a brighter area and check what happens if the color changes.

Is the Purple Heart Plant Toxic?

Although it’s beautiful as beautiful, as beautiful as it is, the Purple Heart plant is toxic to humans and pets when consumed. If your cat or dog attempts to eat it, it may cause illness. Therefore, make sure it is out of reach.

Conclusion: Why Grow the Purple Heart Plant?

If you’re in search of plants that are both simple to maintain and gorgeous and beautiful, it’s the Purple Heart plant is a good option. It can be hung in the form of a basket, spread out throughout your garden as a groundcover or in your home, it’ll provide the perfect pop of color no matter where you place it.

If you take care of it the plant will grow robust and continue to give its stunning purple leaves every year. Give this plant a shot and you won’t be dissatisfied!