Daily Botanical: Purple Heart Wandering Jew (Tradescantia pallida)
This stuff is used as a ground cover everywhere in Austin, Texas. I’m sure southerners are completely sick of it, but it was a treat for this northern gardener who is only used to seeing it growing indoors in a pot. Mind you, I’d never waste precious window space on it myself, but can absolutely appreciate the look when it is left outdoors to wander and spread.
March 30th, 2009 at 10:39 am
My grandmother had one of these that she kept in her sunroom. She never seemed to have to do much to it. I, on the other hand, either didn’t do enough or loved it too much.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:15 pm
I’m a Texan and I absolutely love the stuff! It would be wandering all over my yard if I didn’t rent my yard. One day a yard will be mine and purple jew will wander beautifully and freely. I’m glad you appreciate it!
April 13th, 2009 at 11:00 am
This looks like the houseplant my mother calls “Moses in a boat” due to the way it flowers ~ small white flowers in a pod or “boat” at the base of the leaves. I’ve seen this growing free in Florida as well.