Species

Tradescantia fluminensisSmall-leaf Spiderwort

1 other cultivar

‘Zwanenburg Blue’Zwanenburg Blue Spiderwort

perennial

Pale Puma Wandering Dude

Tradescantia fluminensis 'Pale Puma'

Same species

Species

Tradescantia fluminensisSmall-leaf Spiderwort

1 other cultivar

‘Zwanenburg Blue’Zwanenburg Blue Spiderwort

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

8 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High to moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mexico, Central America

Toxicity

Toxic to pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Tradescantia zebrina, known as Wandering Dude, is a popular trailing houseplant with colorful, striped leaves. The 'Pale Puma' cultivar is distinguished by its unique foliage with muted tones of silvery-green, grey, and dusky purple on top and a solid magenta-purple underneath.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Tradescantia fluminensis Pale Puma adds lush, variegated foliage to shaded gardens and hanging baskets, creating a vibrant green accent.

Its trailing nature makes it an excellent groundcover that suppresses weeds in shaded areas.

Provides habitat and nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings into moist soil or water, ensuring nodes are submerged for rooting.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root development.
Transplant rooted cuttings into a well-draining soil mix after 4-6 weeks.
Place in bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, avoiding overwatering.
Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Use a humidity dome or plastic bag over cuttings to boost rooting success rate.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide bright, indirect sunlight for vibrant foliage 🌞
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged 💧
Fertilize monthly during active growth periods
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth ✂️
Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot

Don't

Avoid direct, harsh sunlight that can scorch leaves ❌
Do not overwater, which can cause root rot 🚫
Refrain from placing in low light conditions, which slow growth
Avoid neglecting pruning, which can lead to leggy plants

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pinch
Plant
Propagate
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vining groundcover with glossy green leavesAmple for hanging baskets or trellisesBright border plant in shaded areas

Companion Plants

Philodendron Pothos Ferns Calatheas Syngonium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pale Puma Wandering Dude questions

What zones can Pale Puma Wandering Dude grow in?

Pale Puma Wandering Dude is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pale Puma Wandering Dude deer resistant?

Yes — Pale Puma Wandering Dude is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Pale Puma Wandering Dude bloom?

Pale Puma Wandering Dude typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Pale Puma Wandering Dude need full sun?

Pale Puma Wandering Dude does best in part shade.