Tradescantia Pallida 'Pink Stripe' (Setcreasea pallida 'Pink Stripe') 3pp

Setcreasea pallida 'Pink Stripes' , also known by the popular name of Tradescantia pallida or "Purple plant", is an ornamental succulent plant highly appreciated for its long leaves, colored in shades of pink, green and purple. This plant is easy to grow, both indoors and outdoors, thanks to its resistance and minimum care requirements.

Description

• Leaves : The leaves are long and thin, about 15-20 cm, with a combination of attractive colors - light pink, purple and green. This variety of Tradescantia is famous for its pink stripes, which give it a special decorative appearance.
• Stems : The stems are thick, fleshy, and have an intense shade of purple. The plant has a trailing growth habit, which makes it ideal for hanging pots.
• Flowers : The flowers are small, pink or purple in color, and occasionally appear at the top of the stems, although the plant is valued mainly for its decorative foliage.

Care

1. Light :

   • Setcreasea pallida 'Pink Stripes' prefers strong indirect light to keep its colors vivid. An exposure to direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon is beneficial, but strong midday sun can burn the leaves.
   • In places with less light, the colors of the leaves can become more faded, and the plant can take on a greener appearance.

2. Watering :

   • The plant prefers to be watered regularly, but it must be allowed to partially dry between waterings. Ideally, the soil should be kept slightly moist, but not soaked with water.
   • In colder periods, watering should be reduced to prevent root rot.

3. Soil :

   • A well-drained soil is essential for this plant. An all-purpose houseplant soil mix mixed with perlite or sand to improve drainage is ideal.
   • Setcreasea pallida 'Pink Stripes' also tolerates soils poor in nutrients, but will grow better in moderately fertile soils.

4. Temperature :

   • This plant prefers moderate temperatures, between 18°C ​​and 24°C. It is sensitive to low temperatures and does not withstand frost. In areas where the winters are cold, it is recommended to be grown in pots and brought indoors in the cold season.

5. Humidity :

   • Setcreasea pallida is not very picky about humidity, but it will grow better in an environment with moderate humidity. Indoors, if the air is too dry, the leaves may start to dry at the edges.

6. Fertilization :

   • The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, for vigorous growth, you can apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer once every two months during the growing season (spring and summer).

7. Multiplication :

   • Setcreasea pallida 'Pink Stripes' is very easily propagated by stem cuttings. Cut a stem approximately 10-15 cm long and plant it in moist soil or put it in water until it develops roots. The cuttings take root quickly and can be replanted in individual pots or in the garden.

8. Trimming and aesthetic care :

   • The plant can become quite long and creeping, so regular trimming may be necessary to maintain a compact appearance. Pruning also stimulates branching and thicker growth.

9. Common problems :

   • Yellowing leaves : This can be caused by excessive watering or lack of sufficient light. Adjust watering and ensure more light.
   • Withered leaves or dry edges : Too dry air or lack of water can lead to drying of the leaves. Check the frequency of watering and, if necessary, use a humidifier.
   • Pale or elongated plants : If the plant receives too little light, it can become pale and elongate in search of light. Move the plant to a brighter place.

Height with pots included approx. 15 cm