Tradescantia pallida

Purple heart is a tender low-growing, trailing, perennial in the spiderwort family (Commelinaceae) that is commonly used as a houseplant or an annual. The plant species is from Mexico, where it grows as a ground cover. The specific epithet, pallida, means "pale."

Although generally an annual, this plant may come back in protected areas or in mild winters. To plant outdoors find a location with full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Full sun will result in the best color development. Plants placed in a shady location will tend to have a more greenish tint. Pinch back to encourage bushiness. It is hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10–11. Container plants need to be brought indoors during the winter. These plants do not tolerate temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It is tolerant of salt, drought, humidity, and dry soil. It is best propagated by stem cuttings.   

The purple heart features trailing purple stems with dark purple, lance-shaped leaves that are covered in pale hairs. The flowers appear in midsummer and are pink to pale purple with bright yellow stamens. Each flower lasts only one day.

The purple heart is desired for its colorful and distinguishing purple foliage, stems and fast growth. Grow it outdoors as a decorative ground cover or bedding plant that will survive longer than most bedding plants. It may be used in a rock garden or cottage garden. It works well in a mass plantings on slopes, in borders, or in containers. It is commonly grown indoors in a hanging basket or in interiorscapes as a ground cover. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Leaf front and back and stems are purple.
• Flowers are at the ends of stems and are usually pink.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for scale, aphids, vine weevil, and mealybugs. Outdoor plants can be eaten on by caterpillars, slugs and snails. Protect the plant from strong winds that can damage the stems. It has a tendency to become invasive in beds.

Be aware that ingestion of this plant can cause mouth and stomach irritation in pets and humans. The sap from the leaves and stem can also cause skin irritation in both humans and pets. 

More information on Tradescantia.