How to grow and care for Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor'
plant care guide about watering, fertilizing, trimming, repotting, cutting, propagating Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor'
Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor' 101 - Plant Care Instructions
Bright direct light
16C° ~24C°
Every 7 days
Botany Encyclopedia
Species : Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor'
🔖 Care Tips
Variegated parts of a plant cannot photosynthesize, so they require more light. However, they can easily scorch under direct sunlight or intense light, so it's best to provide prolonged exposure to indirect light. Additionally, because they cannot photosynthesize as efficiently, their growth rate is slower compared to regular varieties. If there is insufficient light, the variegation may disappear, and the leaves can turn completely green. This is the plant's way of maximizing photosynthesis under low light conditions. In such cases, increasing the light exposure is recommended.
🏝️ Habitat Conditions
It inhabits tropical rainforests and wetlands in Central America. It thrives in warm and humid conditions, so keep the temperature warm and the environment moist for optimal growth. It is sensitive to cold and cannot survive outdoors in winter.
🪨 Soil Mix
It is best to plant in well-draining soil. A common mix ratio is 40% potting soil, 20% bark, 20% leaf mold, 10% perlite, and 10% charcoal. This can vary depending on conditions and environment.
🌡️ Environment
Temperature: Maintain a range of 18-25°C, with a minimum of 10°C. In winter, move the plant indoors as it cannot survive outdoors. Humidity: The plant adapts well to average indoor humidity levels of 40-70%, but increasing humidity can promote more vigorous growth. Be cautious of high humidity without air circulation, as it can lead to mold and pests.
👀 Characteristics details
It is a ground cover plant that spreads sideways rather than growing upwards, covering the ground. Therefore, a wide pot is more suitable than a deep one. Due to its sideways growth, it is also used as a hanging plant for interior decoration purposes.
☀️ Light
This plant primarily inhabits the rainforest floor and does not receive direct sunlight. It is best to provide it with indirect light for extended periods. The more light it receives, the deeper the purple color of its leaves becomes. If the purple color fades or becomes pale, it indicates a lack of light, so it is advisable to increase the light exposure.
💧 Water
It is best to water the plant as soon as the surface soil dries out.
🌱 Propagate
Propagation through cuttings is common. Cuttings adapt easily, root well, and have a high success rate, making it worth trying. For cuttings, use sterilized tools to cut 10-20 cm branches at an angle, dry for 3-4 hours, then place in soil or water for propagation. 1. For water propagation, avoid transparent containers, place the stem in water, and add hydroponic fertilizer once roots appear. Transfer to soil when roots are 5-7 cm long. 2. For soil propagation, plant deeply in soil without fertilizer. After taking cuttings, avoid exposing them to bright light. Gradually increase light exposure to help them adapt. Maintain high humidity and a temperature of 20-25°C.
🪴 Repot
Repot every 1-2 years due to fast growth.
💊 Fertilize
During the growing season from spring to summer, using fertilizer once while adhering to the recommended amount can promote more vigorous growth.
🌺 Flower
In the wild, flowers bloom sporadically throughout the year, but indoors, it's difficult to see them. With sufficient light and high humidity, you may be able to see flowers.
water
How to water Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor'
How often should I water?
check Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor' Every 7 days if it needs water when it’s very cold (below 5℃), water less frequently
When do I need to water?
the top 2-3 inches of soil is dry
Light & Location
How much light does a Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor' need?
Bright direct light
Grow light
Light preference
Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor' likes Bright direct light, Grow light day. The brighter the space, the better this plant grows.
Check if there’s an optimal place in your house!
This plant prefers
2K ~ 20K lux to thrive!
0
20K~
2K
20K
Temperature
Natural habitat
-15
3~40℃
45
Houseplants
-15
16~24℃
45
Plants that grow in the wild and those that grow indoors prefer different temperatures. If you grow Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor' at home, make sure the temperature is 16~24℃.
Humidity
Ideal humidity
0
40~70%
100
Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor' prefers humidity about 40~70%. If necessary, increase humidity by misting, humidifier.
Fertilize
Collective Knowhow
When should I fertilize?
Only when your plant is healthy
How frequently should I fertilize?
1-2 times in growing season. A pinch for a small pot.
Characteristic
| Characteristic Name | Characteristic Value |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | Perennial |
| Hardiness Zone | 9 - 11 |
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