Setcreasea pallidaItem #1188 USDA Hardiness Zone: 7 - 11
Succulent purple leaves on vigorously spreading stems are accented by small dark pink flowers. Dies back in cold weather then vigorously returns in spring. Heat and drought tolerant. Great for low maintenance areas, rock gardens and mixed borders.
- DetailDeciduous/evergreen:HerbaceousSunset climate zones:12 - 24Growth habit:SpreadingGrowth rate:FastAverage landscape size:Rapid growth to 12 to 18 in. tall and spreading.Foliage color:PurpleBlooms:SummerFlower color:PinkDesign IdeasA stunning plant for frost free gardens used as a groundcover. Can fill beds on sheltered locations or be mixed into tropical plantings to add purple foliage color. Great choice for hanging baskets or dangling off the edges of pots. Nestles well into boulders and particularly attractive trailing around rock waterfalls. Color makes a stunning addition to minimal modern gardens.Companion PlantsGroup this purple beauty with warm climate lovers such as Tom Thumb Compact Lantana, (Lantana camara 'Monike'), Strawberry Lemonade Variegated Mandevilla, (Mandevilla sanderi 'MonProud'), Flame Kaffir Lily, (Clivia miniata 'Monya') and All Gold Bougainvillea, (Bougainvillea x 'All Gold')
- CareCare InformationFollow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. As a groundcover, space plants 2 ft. to 3 ft. apart, (closer for faster coverage). Control weeds with mulch until the plants cover the area.Light Needs:Partial to full sunWatering Needs:Once established, needs only occasional watering.
- History & LoreHistory:This plant is found in the southern U.S. and well into Mexico where it is native. Plants first came into cultivation as house plants known as "wandering Jew". It is often grouped into the Tradescantia genus.Lore:The purple coloring of these leaves are due to chemicals known as anthocyanins, which are the same ones that give beets and eggplants a similar color.