With its deep purple foliage and sun-loving nature, Tradescantia pallida (Purple Heart) stands apart from other Wandering Jew varieties. This guide reveals how to grow it as a striking ground cover, trailing houseplant, or dramatic outdoor accent.

Part of our Wandering Jew Plant Varieties Guide (Pillar Page)

1. Distinctive Features

Signature Traits

• Leaves:
  • 2-3″ long, pointed, solid purple
  • Color intensifies with sunlight exposure
• Stems: Thick, succulent, purple
• Flowers: Rare pink blooms (unlike white fluminensis)

Sunlight Color Chart:

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[Full Sun]   → Deep violet leaves  

[Partial Shade] → Lavender-green leaves  

[Full Shade] → Faded green with purple tinge 

Hardiness: Survives brief frosts but dies back in zones <9 (USDA Map).

2. Outdoor vs. Indoor Care

Design Tip: Pair with yellow lantana or silver dusty miller for contrast.

3. Sunlight Optimization

For Maximum Purple Color

1. Morning sun + afternoon shade in hot climates
2. Rotate pots weekly for even coloration
3. Acclimate gradually to prevent sunburn

Caution: In zones 10-11, provide shade cloth in peak summer to prevent scorching.

Research Note: A Texas A&M study found anthocyanin (purple pigment) production peaks at 6 hours of direct sun.

4. Propagating Purple Heart

Ground-Layering Method (Outdoors)

1. Pinch a stem to soil
2. Cover node with 1″ soil
3. Roots form in 7-10 days
4. Sever from mother plant

Success Rate: Near 100% – easier than water propagation for this variety.

Related: Tradescantia Propagation Guide (Internal link)

5. Winter Survival Strategies

In Cold Climates:

1. Dig up roots before first frost
2. Pot and bring indoors as houseplant
3. OR Take cuttings to regrow in spring

As Houseplant:

• Place in south-facing window
• Reduce watering to monthly
• Stop fertilizing until spring

6. FAQs

Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: Mildly – may cause mouth irritation (ASPCA Listing).

Q: Why is mine turning green?
A: Insufficient light – needs 4+ hours of direct sun.

Q: Can it grow in water?
A: Yes, but leaves stay smaller and lighter.