With its trailing stems of deep purple, heart-shaped leaves, Tradescantia pallida (also known as Purple Heart Plant or Wandering Jew) is a vibrant addition to any indoor space. This colorful foliage plant thrives in low-light conditions and is very easy to care for.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to successfully grow and care for your own beautiful purple heart plant. With the right growing conditions and care practices, it will reward you with its lush foliage and trailing habit for many years to come.
Light and Temperature
Purple Heart plants prefer medium to low light indoors. East or west-facing windows provide the perfect growing conditions. They also tolerate low indoor light if supplemented with weekly doses of direct sun.
Just be sure to avoid the hot sun, which can scorch leaves. Purple Heart plants grow best between 65 and 80°F. They’ll let you know if temperatures dip too low by dropping leaves.
Water and Humidity
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, then water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom. During the growing season, water every 7–10 days.
Cut back to every 2-3 weeks in winter when growth slows. For extra lushness, mist leaves occasionally or place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water. High humidity keeps the foliage looking its best.
Soil and Potting
Use a well-draining, organic potting mix formulated for houseplants. I recommend Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix. Repot into the next-size pot as roots fill the container.
Crowding inhibits growth, so bigger pots allow room for an extensive root system to develop and access more nutrients for bigger plants. Terra cotta pots work well for drainage.
Fertilizing and Pruning
Feed your plant every 2-4 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer. Prune off any stems that look unhealthy to maintain an attractive, bushy appearance.
Cut stems can be propagated in water for new plants. Purple Heart is one of the easiest plants to propagate and share.
Pests and Problems
Watch for occasional issues like spider mites, which can be treated with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Underwatering shows in drooping leaves that perk back up with water.
With just basic care, your Purple Heart plant will reward you with its vibrant foliage and trailing habit indoors for many years to come. Let me know if you have any other questions!