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If you’re looking to add a splash of bold, candy-colored foliage to your indoor jungle, look no further than Tradescantia ‘Quadricolor’. This stunning variety of Tradescantia fluminensis sports striped leaves in shades of green, cream, pink, and purple, making it one of the most colorful houseplants you can grow. Each leaf looks like a work of art, and its trailing habit makes it perfect for hanging baskets, shelves, or spilling over the edge of a pot.
Not only is it beautiful, it’s also easy to care for—making it a favorite among beginners and collectors alike.
Tradescantia ‘Quadricolor’ thrives in bright, indirect light. This helps maintain its vibrant variegation, especially the pink and cream tones, which can fade in low light. An east facing window or a few feet back from a sunny south or west window is ideal.
If grown in too little light, the plant may revert to solid green and become leggy. On the flip side, avoid prolonged direct sun, which can scorch the delicate variegated leaves.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Tradescantia prefers consistent moisture, but not soggy soil. Be sure your pot has drainage holes, and never let the plant sit in standing water.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering may cause leaves to crisp and drop. In general, water a little more in the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce in fall and winter.
Tradescantia ‘Quadricolor’ adapts well to average indoor humidity but loves a bit more moisture in the air to keep its foliage lush. If your home is dry, especially in winter, you can:
It thrives in temperatures between 60–80°F (16–27°C). Avoid cold drafts and temps below 50°F (10°C).
Use a well-draining, all-purpose potting mix. A blend containing peat or coco coir, perlite, and a touch of sand or orchid bark works well to ensure good drainage and moisture retention.
Tradescantia has a fast-growing, spreading habit, so repot every 1–2 years or when it becomes root-bound or leggy.
Feed every 4–6 weeks during the spring and summer growing season with a balanced, diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can cause salt buildup or leaf burn, so always follow label instructions.
No need to fertilize in winter when the plant's growth naturally slows.
Prune regularly to maintain a bushy, compact shape and prevent legginess. Simply pinch or snip just above a leaf node to encourage branching. You can also trim back long vines and propagate the cuttings.
Remove any faded or brown leaves to keep your plant tidy and healthy-looking.
One of the easiest plants to propagate, Tradescantia ‘Quadricolor’ grows readily from stem cuttings:
Propagation is best done in spring or early summer.
Unfortunately, Tradescantia plants are mildly toxic to pets. While not highly poisonous, the sap can cause irritation to mouths and skin, especially in cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach of curious paws.