Tradescantia fluminensis 'Nanouk' is a beautifully variegated cultivar known for its striking combination of colors. The leaves display shades of white, green, and pink, often in a marbled or striped pattern. This plant is a compact, trailing variety, perfect for hanging baskets, shelves, or as ground cover. Its colorful foliage adds a vibrant touch to any space, and it’s popular for its easy care. As it grows, it produces long, cascading vines that can be pruned to maintain a bushy appearance or left to trail freely.
Tradescantia fluminensis 'Nanouk'
$2.75Price
Light:
- Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant pink and white variegation.
- In lower light conditions, the plant may lose some of its vibrant colors and become more green.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the delicate leaves and fade the coloration.
Watering:
- Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry to the touch.
- Be sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid root rot.
- In cooler months, reduce watering as the plant’s growth slows down.
Humidity:
- Prefers moderate to high humidity levels.
- Mist the plant occasionally or place it on a humidity tray to keep it happy in dry indoor environments.
- A bathroom or kitchen with good light and humidity is ideal.
Temperature:
- Ideal temperature range: 60–80°F (15–27°C).
- Avoid exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) as it can damage the plant.
Soil:
- Use a well-draining potting mix. A typical houseplant mix with added perlite for better drainage works well.
- Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the roots.
Fertilizer:
- Feed with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring through summer).
- Reduce fertilization in the fall and winter when the plant's growth slows.
Pruning:
- Prune to maintain a compact and tidy shape, especially if it becomes leggy.
- You can trim back the vines to encourage more growth and bushiness.
Repotting:
- Repot every 1–2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its pot.
- Choose a pot that’s slightly larger than the current one and refresh the soil with a well-draining mix.
Pests:
- Watch out for pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Check the undersides of leaves and along the stems for signs of infestation.
- Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage pests.
Toxicity:
- Toxic to pets if ingested, causing mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Keep away from pets like cats and dogs.
- It is generally safe for humans but avoid ingesting any part of the plant.