Inchplant (Tradescantia commelinoides)
Care, watering, light and tips for Inchplant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Commelinaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Inchplant
Tradescantia commelinoides, commonly known as Lluia, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Commelinaceae family. It is characterized by its trailing or cascading stems and its deep green, lance-shaped leaves, often with a silvery sheen on the underside. It is ideal for hanging baskets, borders, or as ground cover in shady areas, adding a touch of freshness and color.
Native range
South America (Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay)
Care tips
It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Keep the substrate consistently moist but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Use a well-draining, organic-rich potting mix. A common mistake is overwatering, leading to yellowing leaves and stem rot.
How to save a dying Inchplant
- Warning signs
- Pale leaves, soft/mushy stems, rot at the base. Usually due to overwatering.
- First aid
- Remove from pot, check roots. If rotted, cut and repot in dry, light substrate.
- What kills it
- Excessive watering and poor drainage. It doesn't tolerate soggy soil; roots rot quickly.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. It's very resilient and roots easily from healthy cuttings.