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GENERAL
Origin
:
sub-tropical,
tropical
Vigour
:
fast growing
Humidity
:
semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
humid
Propagation :
cuttings
Maintenance :
moderate
CONDITIONS
Urban climate :
resistant
Dessication :
vulnerable
Stagnant water :
vulnerable
Irrigation
:
medium
Salinity/ppm :
moderate (2500
ppm)
Hardiness
:
+3°C
SHAPE
Type
:
perennial
Height
:
0.1 m-0.15 m
Spread
:
0.5 m-2 m
Foliage
:
evergreen
FLOWER
Colour
:
pink
Size
:
1.3 cm
Period
:
May - August
FRUIT
Type of fruit :
capsule
Fruit size
:
0.4 cm
Known as Purple Heart or Purple Queen, this herbaceous plant is widely distributed for its co-
lourful qualities. The species is indigenous to eastern Mexico, where its green foliage is flushed
with red for protection in full sun. In cultivation, a variety named ‘Purpurea’ is usually found,
with dull foliage in deep purple when it is grown in full sun. Less light is accepted, but the colour
will fade to greenish-red. The plant blankets open areas with fleshy stems that root at the nodes
to form a dense mat between 10 cm and 15 cm high, and somewhat higher where it can lean on
walls or neighbouring plants. Its width is permanently spread when the twigs touch the ground
for rooting. The leaves measure between 8 cm and 12 cm in length. In summer, small pink flowers
are borne at the tips, which are pointed upwards. They look attractive, but do not appear in abun-
dance. After flowering, the shoots may be pinched to encourage denser growth. In Arriyadh, the
foliage is evergreen unless the site is exposed to frosts. However, plants recover from dying back
when weather turns warmer in spring. In adverse conditions, the plant may also be grown in pots
or containers, and makes an ideal plant in hanging baskets. It is very easy to multiply by cuttings,
either in water or in compost, but it should be borne in mind that the sap may cause irritation to
sensitive skin. Purple Hearts perform best in well-drained, fertile soil with frequent watering. On
the other hand, they are widely adaptable, tolerating poor soil, some drought and even neglect.
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Tradescantia pallida,
Commelinaceae
Purple Heart,
Purple Queen