Tradescantia purpurea

Tradescantia purpurea or Setcresia purpurea, as for the scientific name, there is some disagreement regarding the correctness of one or another name. In a number of sources, including Wikipedia (English version), it is proposed to use Setcreasea purpurea or Setcreasea pallida, as well as Tradescantia pallida as a synonym.

Occurs from the Mexican coast – North and Central America. It was first introduced to Europe in 1907 as an ornamental garden plant. Currently used in this capacity or in paludariums. It grows exclusively in the air on moist soil, so it is not used in aquariums.

The plant has elongated lanceolate leaves up to 15 cm long, located on a thin stem in pairs, opposite each other on each tier – an opposite arrangement. A characteristic feature of this species is the rich purple / purple color of the leaves with a blue tint. In favorable conditions, actively blooms, forming pale pink flowers with three petals.

Setcresia purpurea prefers a moist substrate. Not demanding on the mineral composition of the soil. Lighting is moderate to bright, but should not be exposed to direct sunlight, diffused natural light is recommended.