Wandering Dude 'Bubble Gum' Tradescantia albiflora, 4"

Quick Description

The Tradescantia ‘Bubble Gum’ variety has the most joyful pops of bright pinky-purple hues that’s sure to become a new favorite among plant enthusiasts.

Key Information and Plant Overview

• Binomial Name: Tradescantia blossfeldiana variegata ‘Bubblegum’
• Care Level: Easy
• Light: Bright to medium, indirect light
• Water: Allow the top 2” of soil to dry before watering
• Pet Friendly: No

Whatever life has to throw at it this bright and cheery plant just keeps growing! The Tradescantia family is widely known for its ability to set up roots anywhere, and for being tolerant of prolonged bouts of neglect. This ‘Bubble Gum’ variety is no different, with the pops of bright pinky-purple hues it's sure to become a new favorite. 

PlantX Top Tip: Lower light levels will cause the variegation to become less pronounced in the newer growth. 

How to Care for Wandering Dude ‘Bubble Gum’

• Light: Bright to medium with no direct light
• Water: Allow the top 2 inches of the soil to dry before watering.
• Humidity: Average relative humidity of 25% to 49%
• Temperature: Average from 18°C to 24°C (65°F - 75°F)
• Fertilizer: Follow a monthly fertilizing schedule when the plant is actively growing. In most cases, this is in the spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer - this means a ratio of NPK that is all the same. Ex: 10-10-10.
• Soil: Use a well-draining, high organic matter soil mix.
• Propagation: Stem cuttings can be placed in moist soil or in water until it forms roots that are about 2-3” long then transplant to moist soil. 
• Repotting: Can be done every 12-18 months. Choose a pot that is 2” larger in diameter than the original pot.
• Cleaning Tip: Remove broken or damaged stalks and place them back in the soil to create a fuller-looking plant. 
• Toxicity: Toxic. It’s best to keep plants out of reach from children and pets.

Wandering Dude ‘Bubble Gum’ - Common Problems

Why is my plant elongated and leggy: When a plant doesn’t get the required amount of light, the plant will begin to stretch towards the strongest light source. In order to prevent this, find a bright location in your space without direct sunlight.

I broke off a piece of my Tradescantia, what should I do: You can pop the broken piece right back into the soil or in a vessel filled with water until it roots. Propagating tradescantia is fairly easy and the little propagated stems make great gifts! 

The variegation is beginning to fade, how can I prevent this: Tradescantia ‘Bubble Gum’ need adequate light to continue producing their beautiful pink and purple variegation. If you notice it fading, place it in a brighter location without having it sit in direct sunlight.

Signs of Overwatering: New growth becomes soft and brown and the leaves begin to drop.

Common Pests: Susceptible to spider mites, mealy bugs, aphids, whitefly, scale, and thrips.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I care for my Tradescantia?

Place your plant in a bright to medium lit room with average humidity and temperature. Allow the top 2” of the soil to dry in between watering. If you desire a more compact, fuller looking plant - remove broken or damaged stems and place them back in the soil to root.