Setcreasea

Tradescantia pallida 'Purple Heart' (formerly Setcreasea purpurea)
Full Sun to Part Shade
12-18" height
12-24" spread
Trailing, spreading habit

Purple Heart is a bold and vibrant foliage plant with striking purple stems and lance-shaped leaves. It produces small pink flowers in summer and is prized for its intense color and trailing habit—ideal for hanging baskets, containers, or ground cover in warm climates.

To keep your Purple Heart looking its best, here are some guidelines for care:

• Light: Best color develops in full sun. Can tolerate part shade, but foliage may appear greener.

• Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Drought tolerant once established, but prefers consistent moisture in containers.

• Fertilizer: Feed every 3-4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

• Pruning: Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. Can be cut back hard if it becomes overgrown.

• Propagation: Easily propagated by stem cuttings in water or soil.

• Pests: Generally pest-free, but watch for mealybugs or aphids in dry indoor conditions.

• Cold Sensitivity: Not frost hardy. Treat as an annual or bring indoors in Zone 3.

• Toxicity: Mildly toxic to pets if ingested. May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.