Tradescantia boliviana is a striking perennial with lance-shaped, deep purple leaves that create a dramatic visual contrast in gardens and containers. It thrives in moist
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Bright, indirect light is ideal. Can tolerate some shade but may become leggy.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C.
Low
25% intensity
Feed every 2-4 weeks during the growing season with diluted liquid fertilizer.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Tradescantia boliviana prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler months to prevent root rot, but never allow the soil to dry out completely. Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves and fungal issues.
Prune Tradescantia boliviana to maintain a bushy shape and encourage fuller growth. Pinch back leggy stems regularly. Remove any yellowing or dead foliage promptly.
Heavy pruning can be done in early spring to rejuvenate the plant and promote new shoots.
Tradescantia boliviana is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy stems, remove the lower leaves, and place them in moist potting mix or water.
Roots will typically form within a few weeks. Ensure cuttings are taken from a healthy parent plant.
Repot Tradescantia boliviana every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound and outgrows its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in spring before the active growing season begins.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Tradescantia Boliviana (Tradescantia boliviana)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
| Species | Tradescantia boliviana |
Similar in genus Tradescantia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
