25 - 40cm Tradescantia Quadcolour Houseplant 17cm Hanging Pot

Description: Tradescantia Quadricolor, often referred to as Spiderwort, is a striking cultivar celebrated for its vibrant, multicoloured foliage. The leaves typically feature a mix of four shades: green, cream, pink, and purple, giving the plant its name. The foliage is elongated and slightly waxy, with a trailing or cascading growth habit, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets, pots, or as ground cover in warmer climates.

This Tradescantia is both an ornamental plant and relatively easy to care for, making it a favourite among indoor gardeners. Its adaptability to various light conditions and fast growth make it ideal for adding a pop of colour to your home or garden.

Care Guide

1. Light Requirements

• Preferred: Bright, indirect sunlight.
• Tolerates: Partial shade, but colours will be less vibrant.
• Avoid: Direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as it can scorch the leaves, especially the pink and cream sections.

2. Watering

• Frequency: Water when the top 2–3 cm (1 inch) of soil feels dry.
• Technique: Use lukewarm, filtered water to avoid shocking the roots.
• Caution: Do not overwater, as Tradescantia Quadricolor is susceptible to root rot. Ensure the pot has proper drainage.

3. Humidity

• Thrives in moderate to high humidity.
• Place near a humidifier or on a pebble tray with water if the air is particularly dry.
• Mist occasionally, especially during winter when indoor heating reduces humidity.

4. Temperature

• Ideal range: 18–25°C (65–77°F).
• Avoid temperatures below 10°C (50°F), as Tradescantia Quadricolor is not frost-tolerant.

5. Soil

• Use a well-draining potting mix.
• A blend designed for houseplants with added perlite or sand works well.

6. Fertilising

• Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer.
• Reduce feeding in autumn and stop altogether in winter when growth slows.

7. Pruning

• Prune regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth.
• Pinch back stems to prevent legginess and promote new shoots.
• Remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy.

8. Propagation

• Tradescantia Quadricolor is easily propagated through stem cuttings.
• Take a cutting below a node, remove the bottom leaves, and place it in water or directly into moist soil.
• Roots will typically develop within 2–3 weeks.

9. Pests

• Watch for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
• Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

10. Common Problems

• Fading Colours: Indicates insufficient light. Move to a brighter location.
• Yellowing Leaves: May be due to overwatering. Allow soil to dry out more between waterings.
• Leggy Growth: Results from low light or lack of pruning. Pinch back stems and adjust lighting conditions.

11. Repotting

• Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant outgrows its pot.
• Choose a slightly larger pot to avoid waterlogging.

Styling Tips

• Use Tradescantia Quadricolor in a hanging basket to highlight its cascading growth.
• Pair it with other plants with contrasting foliage, like ferns or pothos, for a dynamic display.
• Use it as a colourful ground cover in shaded outdoor gardens in frost-free climates.

With proper care, Tradescantia Quadricolor will reward you with its vibrant and unique foliage, enhancing any indoor or outdoor space!