7 Best Purple Heart Plant Care Tips

03.05.2024 - 14:23 / balconygardenweb.com / Raul Cornelius

From how much sunlight it needs, to when to water the growing medium, here are some essential purple heart plant care tips that will keep it in the best shape!

Native to Mexico, the Purple Heart (Tradescantia pallida) is an ornamental plant known for its striking foliage and ease of care. This herbaceous perennial grows in dense clusters of foliage along trailing stems which makes it an excellent choice for hanging baskets, container gardens or even as ground cover.

The purple heart plant thrives in bright sunlight but should not be exposed directly. So, what’s the best approach?

Well, to ensure the leaves stay vivid, place it at an east facing location, which will expose it to the mild morning sun for 3-4 hours and then, for the rest of the day, the plant can bask in indirect light.

PRO Tip: Rotating the plant every week will ensure uniform sun exposure on all side, promoting even growth, while preventing it from leaning to one side. It also results in a uniform color on all sides.

Another easy way to keep the plant thriving without worrying at all abut the soil is togrow it in water. This also shows off its roots, gives it a more attractive appearance.

When growing it in this way, make sure to fully submerge the roots under the water. Also, change the water once every week (or whenever it starts to become cloudy) to stop algae from developing and spreading in water.

The purple heart plant thrives best in humid conditions (30-50%). However, misting the leaves is not a good option as it can attract fungal issues. So, what’s the best call?

First, keep its pot on a pebble tray filled with water, or second, get a humidifier and keep it near your purple heart.

While growing the plant in soil, it is important to ensure you are not