Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia
Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia, also known as Tradescantia spathacea ‘Tricolor’, is a tropical perennial plant that is native to Mexico and Central America. Part of the spiderwort family and is commonly grown as a houseplant or as an outdoor plant in warm climates.
The Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia has striking leaves that are variegated with shades of pink, green, and cream. The leaves are elongated and oblong in shape and can grow up to 6 inches in length. The plant also produces small, white flowers that are clustered together and bloom sporadically throughout the year.
The plant prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some shade. It should be watered regularly, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering to prevent overwatering. The plant also benefits from occasional misting to increase humidity levels.
Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia can be propagated by division, stem cuttings, or by planting its seeds. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can add a pop of color to any indoor or outdoor space. Should be noted that the plant is toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach of animals.
Dimensions
Can vary depending on various factors such as the age of the plant, the growing conditions, and the care it receives. Grows up to 12 to 18 inches in height and spreads out to form a clump up to 18 to 24 inches wide. The leaves of the plant can grow up to 6 inches long and 3 inches wide. The height and width of the plant can be controlled by pruning and repotting as needed. Worth noting, relatively fast-growing plant and may require occasional pruning to keep it within the desired size and shape.
Zones
Tropical plant and is typically grown as a houseplant or as an outdoor plant in warm climates. It is native to Mexico and Central America and prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. Hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, which includes areas with mild winters and temperatures that rarely fall below freezing. In colder climates, Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia can be grown as a houseplant or as an annual plant during the summer months. It is important to note that the plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures.
How to Tend
Inside
Here are some tips for tending to a Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia indoors:
- Lighting: Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some shade. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Watering: The plant should be watered regularly, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering to prevent overwatering. It is essential to avoid letting the plant sit in water as this can cause root rot.
- Humidity: Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia prefers high humidity levels. To increase humidity, you can mist the plant occasionally or place a tray of water near the plant.
- Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and should be kept in an environment with temperatures ranging from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Fertilization: You can fertilize the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Pruning: Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia is a fast-growing plant and may require occasional pruning to keep it within the desired size and shape. You can pinch back the tips of the plant to encourage bushier growth and remove any yellow or dead leaves to promote new growth.
Overall, Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can add a pop of color to any indoor space. Just make sure to keep it out of reach of pets as the plant is toxic if ingested.
Outside
Here are some tips for tending to a Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia outdoors:
- Lighting: Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia prefers partial shade to full sun. If you live in a hot climate, it is best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent the leaves from burning.
- Watering: Watered regularly, especially during dry spells, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering to prevent overwatering. It is essential to avoid letting the plant sit in water as this can cause root rot.
- Soil: Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, you can add compost or sand to improve drainage.
- Fertilization: You can fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Pruning: Fast-growing plant and may require occasional pruning to keep it within the desired size and shape. You can pinch back the tips of the plant to encourage bushier growth and remove any yellow or dead leaves to promote new growth.
- Protection from frost: Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures. If you live in an area with frost, you can grow the plant as an annual or bring it indoors during the winter months.
Overall, Rainbow Tricolor Tradescantia is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can add a pop of color to any outdoor space. Just make sure to provide the plant with the appropriate lighting, soil, and water requirements, and protect it from frost if necessary.
How to Purchase
You can buy this plant at our Esty shop. Happy Shopping!!
