Nanouk Tradescantia

Nanouk Tradescantia is a striking plant with thick, fleshy leaves striped in shades of pink, cream, and green. This relatively new cultivar was discovered by a grower in Holland around 2012 and was patented in 2017. Tradescantia albiflora (commonly labeled as T. fluminensis in Europe) is also known by common names such as Bubblegum, Fantasy Venice, and Lilac, and is sometimes referred to as the Pink Wandering Dude. Tradescantia plants typically tolerate periods of neglect and some over- or underwatering, making them ideal starter plants for novice gardeners. However, Nanouk can be slightly more challenging, as it is sensitive to light levels, room temperature, and soil drainage. Any drastic changes to its microclimate can lead to discoloration and premature leaf drop.Best Locations For Growing Nanouk TradescantiaTradescantia has succulent-like leaves that tolerate lower humidity levels like those found indoors during the fall and winter. However, growing Nanouk in a higher-humidity environment, such as a bathroom or kitchen, is also fine as long as watering is adjusted accordingly. While Tradescantia is often classified as a trailing plant, its true growth habit is more upright and sprawling, rather than trailing over the edge of a pot. Large shelves or bookcases make excellent long-term homes for a single specimen. Growing Nanouk as part of a larger plant display may require regular pruning to keep it from encroaching on its neighbors. It is important to note that Nanouk Tradescantia is considered mildly toxic to humans and potentially more harmful to pets that ingest large amounts of foliage or stems.Nanouk Tradescantia Sunlight RequirementsBright direct light can be too harsh and may bleach or scorch Nanouk’s leaves, so bright indirect light from an east or west-facing window is ideal. Early morning sun is less likely to bleach the magnificent coloration of the leaves. Insufficient light can encourage leggy growth and smaller leaf size. Nanouk can also thrive under full-spectrum LED grow lights and will tolerate fluorescent lighting in an office with limited natural light.Nanouk Tradescantia CareGood drainage is essential for growing a healthy Tradescantia indoors. An all-purpose, peat-free potting mix will suffice, although adding more perlite or pumice will improve drainage and root development. Tradescantia can be picky about its location in the house; areas with drafts from heating or cooling vents or frequently opened doors can stress the plant, causing leaves to drop prematurely or become spotted or discolored. Regularly trimming the ends of stems encourages dense foliage growth and a manageable, compact shape.Watering Nanouk TradescantiaTo avoid overwatering Nanouk, allow about a quarter of the potting mix to dry between waterings. During the active growing period in spring and summer, watering may be needed once or twice a week, depending on humidity levels. In winter, reduce watering to once every 10-14 days, as long as the plant does not show signs of dehydration.Feeding Nanouk TradescantiaAll-purpose houseplant fertilizer works well for Tradescantia. Use a balanced, water-soluble type and only feed during the spring and summer. A balanced NPK ratio provides essential nutrients for all parts of the plant. Alternatively, a top dressing of worm castings or very finely sifted compost in spring and again in early summer will offer a slow release of nutrients throughout the growing season.Nanouk Tradescantia InformationLight Exposure: Bright Indirect LightMature Height: 14 InchesMature Spread: 18 – 36 InchesHabit: Trailing, SprawlingFlower Color(s): NoneFoliage Color(s): Pink, Purple, Green, And WhiteWatering: DryFeatures: Fast Growing, Variegated FoliageCommon Name: Nanouk TradescantiaOther Name(s): Nanouk TradescantiaScientific Name: Tradescantia albiflora ‘Nanouk’