Tradescantia ‘Purple Passion’, also known as Gynura aurantiaca, is a striking houseplant famous for its deep purple, velvety leaves covered with fine, soft hairs that give the plant a fuzzy texture. This trailing plant's unique colour and texture make it a standout in any indoor plant collection, providing a vibrant, eye-catching splash of purple. It is native to tropical regions, and its cascading growth makes it ideal for hanging baskets or as a trailing accent in mixed plant displays. Its fast-growing nature and dramatic appearance make it a favourite among plant enthusiasts.
Tradescantia ‘Purple Passion’ is a vibrant and rewarding plant that adds a splash of colour and texture to any space. With its low-maintenance care and dramatic appearance, it makes a perfect choice for plant enthusiasts who appreciate a bit of flair in their indoor garden.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its vivid purple colour.
Can tolerate some direct morning sunlight but avoid strong, direct afternoon sun, which may scorch the leaves.
In lower light, the plant may become leggy and lose some of its vibrant colouring.
Water
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry.
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, as the plant is prone to root rot if left in soggy conditions.
Reduce watering in the winter months when growth slows, allowing the soil to dry out a bit more between waterings.
Humidity
Prefers average to slightly higher humidity levels, around 50-60%.
It can tolerate normal household humidity but will benefit from occasional misting.
Avoid placing it near heating vents or air conditioners, as dry air can cause the leaves to become crispy at the edges.
Temperature
Ideal temperature range: 16-24°C.
Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C, which can damage the plant.
Tradescantia ‘Purple Passion’ prefers stable indoor temperatures without sudden changes.
Soil
Use a well-draining, lightweight potting mix.
A standard houseplant mix with added perlite or sand works well to ensure good drainage.
Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent standing water at the roots.
Fertilisation
Feed with a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Avoid over-fertilising, which can lead to leggy growth.
Reduce fertilisation in the fall and winter when the plant's growth slows.
Repotting
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Use a pot that is 1-2 inches larger than the current one with good drainage.
Repotting is best done in spring when the plant begins to show new growth.
Pruning
Regular pruning helps maintain a compact, bushy shape and prevents legginess.
Pinch back the growing tips to encourage denser growth and more branching.
Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking its best.
Propagation
Easily propagated through stem cuttings.
Take 4-6 inch cuttings, remove the lower leaves, and place them in water or directly in moist soil.
Roots should develop within a couple of weeks, making it an easy way to expand your collection or share with friends.
Am I Pet Friendly?
Unfortunately I am NOT pet friendly.
What size am I?
I am in a 12cm pot.