Tradescantia Bubblegum Lilac by Bumble Plants

Fulfilled by our friends at Bumble Plants

* You will receive ONE (1) 4" plant in nursery pot, unless stated otherwise. Refer to our FAQ for more information.

Tradescantia Bubblegum Lilac is the trending plant on Instagram right now. It has pretty bright green, pink & purple leaves that grow onto chunky stems- it's not like any other Tradescantia because this variety was grown by cross pollinating two selected seedlings from across Europe. This unique plant is well-known for its distinct colorations and hanging vines, which are sure to brighten up any room. With its hardy nature and ease of growth, Tradescantia Bubblegum/Lilac is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of natural beauty to their home.

This easy-to-care-for houseplant is perfect for those who are new to gardening. As long as you give it a good amount of filtered light and prune it regularly, you will enjoy your Tradescantia for many years. The sap contained in the leaves can be irritating, so make sure to wash your hands after handling them or wear gloves when you touch them.

Tradescantia Bubblegum plant, aka Fantasy Venice or Spiderwort ‘Nanouk’ used to be known as the Tradescantia Nanouk or the Wandering Jew. The common name has now been changed as it is used to justify anti-Semitism.

How to care for Tradescantia Bubblegum

Watering

Tradescantia Bubblegum is the perfect plant for forgetful gardeners. Water every 5 - 7 days or when the top 2 - 3" of the top soil is dry. This hardy perennial requires regular watering, but can tolerate periods of drought. Water more often during the summer months to keep the soil moist, and from November to March, let the plant dry out slightly.

Sunlight

Tradescantia Bubblegum’s light requirement is not too demanding. The plant requires  indirect sunlight, so be sure to place it in an area with at least six hours of daily exposure. If the colors on your plant are fading, this is a sign that it needs more light.

Temperature

Keep your Tradescantia between 65 and 75 °F (18-24 °C) during the day for fast growth, or around 65 °F (18°C) at night. Avoid exposing your plant to prolonged cold temperatures or frost.  Avoid exposing it to prolonged cold temperatures or frost, as this can damage the leaves.

Humidity

Tradescantia requires moderate levels of humidity; mist the leaves if you notice them becoming brown or crispy.

Toxicity

Tradescantia Bubblegum is a toxic to cats, dogs and children, potentially deadly plant that can cause dermatitis and stomach upsets to those who come into contact with it. If your cats or dogs like to chew on plants, keep Tradescantias away from them because it is poisonous if they ingest the leaves.

Fertilizer

To keep your Bubblegum looking its best, be sure to follow a feeding schedule using a 20-5-10 liquid fertilizer every two months from April to October. Fertilizer is not required from November to March.

Growth Rate

A fast-growing plant that can reach heights of up to 6 inches, Tradescantia Bubblegum is perfect for hanging baskets and other containers. 

Pruning

When growing vertically like this type of vine does naturally - remember that it's best not too cut back on growth at all! Just make sure any dead leaves get removed so they don't cause clutter inside your container/hanging planter. If it is preferred to keep Tradescantia on its shorter side then regular pinching will be necessary for healthy growth and preventing long vines from developing! 

Propagation

If you’re wondering how to propagate a Tradescantia Bubblegum, it’s extremely simple. To root a cutting, simply submerge the stem in water and keep it moist. It should start rooting within 1-2 weeks!

Soil Mix

Tradescantia Bubblegum soil mix is easy to mix. Use a well-draining peat-based potting mix, or create your own by mixing 2 parts peat with 1 part perlite and 1 part orchid bark.

Repotting

Repot your Tradescantias once a year will help or when roots are peeking out of the bottom pot holes maintain their height and vigor. Select a pot that is 1-2″ wider than the current one to allow roots to grow and expand. It’s important to not select a planter too large for the risk of root rot.

Common Pests

Infestations of spider mites can be a problem for Tradescantia, especially those that have been grown in poor soil. To get rid of these pests and their eggs on your Tradescantia Bubblegum  add 50% alcohol to water when spraying it around the base area where most likely they will thrive - this also helps prevent new infestations from spreading!

Common Problems

If you find that your Tradescantia plant's leaves are starting to fall, it could be a sign of old age or excessive watering. In either case there may not much left in the way for this beautiful but stubborn herb!

The fading leaves on your Tradescantia plant reveal a crucial truth - it needs more light. If you notice that the color is beginning to fade, move them into an area with plenty of natural sunlight!