How to Grow Plum Pudding
Plum Pudding
Tradescantia pallida 'Plum Pudding'
flowerPlum Pudding is a stunning ornamental houseplant featuring deep purple foliage with burgundy undersides and delicate pink or lavender flowers. It is a cultivar of Wandering Jew (Spiderwort) prized for its dramatic color and trailing growth habit. This easy-to-grow tropical plant thrives indoors and outdoors in warm climates.
When should you plant Plum Pudding in your zone?
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Example Plum Pudding timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Plum Pudding
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Plum Pudding blooms
Around Apr 19≈ 2 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Plum Pudding dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11 outdoors; zones 3-11 as a houseplant
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Establishment
2-3 weeksYoung plant develops its first true leaves and establishes root system
Water regularly to keep soil moist; avoid direct intense sun; pinch tips to encourage branching
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant produces new stems and leaves rapidly; purple foliage darkens and becomes more vibrant
Provide bright indirect light for best color; fertilize every 2-3 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizer; pinch growing tips regularly
Trailing/Spreading
OngoingStems elongate and cascade downward; plant becomes fuller and more decorative
Support with stakes if grown upright; prune to maintain desired shape; continue regular fertilizing
Flowering
Periodically throughout growing seasonDelicate small pink, lavender, or white flowers appear along stems and leaf nodes
Maintain consistent moisture and bright light; flowers are non-essential for ornamental value; deadheading not necessary
Mature/Maintenance
Indefinite with proper carePlant reaches full size and established form; continues producing foliage and flowers
Prune back by one-third annually to rejuvenate; divide overcrowded plants; reduce watering and fertilizing in winter dormancy
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if infestation persists; increase humidity
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; apply neem oil spray; isolate affected plant
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Scrape off manually; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap weekly for 2-3 weeks
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Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply sand mulch to soil surface
Uses
Interior Decoration & Container Growing
HouseholdPlum Pudding is exceptional for houseplant displays, hanging baskets, and tabletop containers where its deep purple foliage and trailing stems create dramatic visual impact. Its compact size and year-round color make it ideal for brightening indoor spaces with minimal care. [source]
Floral Arrangements & Propagation Projects
CraftThe colorful stems and small flowers are attractive in fresh floral arrangements and terrariums. The plant is excellent for propagation projects and gifting, as cuttings root easily in water within weeks. [source]
Pollinator-Friendly Blooms
WildlifeThe delicate flowers attract small insects and pollinators, making it a gentle way to support beneficial insects when grown outdoors or on patios in warm climates. [source]
Low-Toxicity Indoor Plant
HouseholdUnlike many houseplants, Plum Pudding is non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe choice for homes with curious cats, dogs, and small hands. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalSome Tradescantia species have been used in traditional medicine systems for minor wound care and skin health, though Plum Pudding cultivar is grown primarily for ornamental purposes. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Plum Pudding is an ornamental plant, not harvested for food. Pinch back stems regularly throughout the growing season to encourage bushier growth and deeper purple color. Cuttings can be propagated year-round in water or moist soil for 2-3 weeks to root.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Plum Pudding is named for its rich purple color that resembles the traditional dark plum pudding dessert, particularly vibrant when exposed to bright light.
- 🌱 Tradescantia species are so easy to propagate that a single cutting can establish roots in plain water in as little as 7-10 days, making this plant a favorite for propagation swaps among plant enthusiasts.
- 🌱 The plant goes by many common names including Wandering Jew, Inch Plant, and Spiderwort, and has been a beloved houseplant since Victorian times due to its easy care and dramatic appearance.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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