Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Quadricolor’ 

Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Quadricolor’ is a colourful trailing houseplant with leaves striped in green, cream, pink and purple. As plant shop owners, we love it for its quick growth and cascading habit, which make it ideal for hanging pots, shelves and windowsill displays.

Origin

Tradescantia fluminensis originates from the tropical and subtropical regions of South America, particularly Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. ‘Quadricolor’ is a cultivated variety selected for its bright, multicoloured foliage.

Care Guide

• Light: Position in bright, indirect light to maintain its strongest colours. Too little light may cause the pink and cream markings to fade.

• Direct sunlight: Gentle morning or evening sunshine can improve the colouring, but harsh midday sun may scorch the leaves.

• Watering: Water when the top 2–3 cm of compost feels dry. Water thoroughly, then allow all excess moisture to drain away.

• Winter watering: Reduce watering during autumn and winter when the plant grows more slowly.

• Humidity: Average household humidity is usually suitable. Avoid positioning the plant directly beside radiators or cold draughts.

• Temperature: Keep at a warm room temperature. Protect it from frost and temperatures below 12°C.

• Compost: Use a light, free-draining houseplant compost. Adding perlite will help prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged.

• Pot: Choose a pot with drainage holes and never allow it to stand in water.

• Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser at half strength every four to six weeks during spring and summer.

• Pruning: Pinch out the growing tips regularly to encourage fuller, bushier growth. Long or bare stems can be trimmed back with clean scissors.

• Repotting: Repot in spring when the roots fill the container. Choose a new pot only slightly larger than the current one.

• Propagation: Take stem cuttings with several leaf nodes and place them in water or directly into moist compost. Plant several rooted cuttings together to create a fuller display.

• Common problems: Faded colours or long gaps between leaves usually indicate insufficient light. Brown tips may be caused by dry conditions, while soft yellow leaves can indicate overwatering. Watch for aphids, mealybugs and spider mites.

Pet Safety

• Not pet-safe: Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Quadricolor’ should be kept away from cats, dogs and other pets.

• The leaves and stems may cause irritation if chewed or eaten.

• Contact with the sap can cause redness, itching or dermatitis, particularly around an animal’s mouth, paws and skin.

• Possible symptoms after ingestion include drooling, vomiting and mild digestive upset.

• Wear gloves when pruning if you have sensitive skin, and wash your hands afterwards.

• If your pet eats the plant or develops a skin reaction, contact your veterinary practice for advice.

Our Tip

Regular trimming is the secret to keeping a ‘Quadricolor’ looking full and vibrant. Place the cuttings back into the same pot once rooted to refresh the display and prevent it from becoming sparse at the top.

Sold without a decorative pot, colour and size may vary slightly.

Local plant delivery or collection available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.

D12cm H20cm