Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Low to Moderate
Humidity
Average to High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Toxic to pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Tradescantia pallida, commonly known as purple heart, is a herbaceous perennial known for its attractive, vibrant purple foliage. This species is recognized for its stunning color and versatility in garden settings, particularly as a ground cover or in containers.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck cuttings into moist soil to root in 2-3 weeks.
- Mist leaves regularly to maintain humidity.
- Plant in well-drained soil with partial sun exposure.
- Water consistently but avoid waterlogging.
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season.
- Prune to shape and encourage bushier growth.
Pro Tip
Use stem cuttings for quick and easy propagation to expand your collection.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during the growing season 🌱
- Provide bright, indirect light for vibrant foliage
- Prune to shape and remove dead stems
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't place in direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves
- Skip fertilizing during dormancy
- Do not neglect pruning to maintain shape
- Avoid cold drafts in winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Purple Heart questions
What zones can Purple Heart grow in?
Purple Heart is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Purple Heart deer resistant?
Yes — Purple Heart is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Purple Heart bloom?
Purple Heart typically blooms in summer, early fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Purple Heart need full sun?
Purple Heart does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Purple Heart drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Purple Heart handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Tradescantia to compare
Sweet Kate Spiderwort
Tradescantia occidentalis 'Sweet Kate'
Virginia Spiderwort
Tradescantia virginiana
Variegated Wandering Jew
Tradescantia pallida 'Variegata'
Carmine Glow Spiderwort
Tradescantia x andersoniana 'Karminglut'
Leonora Spiderwort
Tradescantia x andersoniana 'Leonora'
Concord Grape Spiderwort
Tradescantia x andersoniana 'Concord Grape'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Purple Heart with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
