Tradescantia pallida is an evergreen, narrow, leaves species of spiderwort native to eastern Mexico. It is a perennial plant with elongated, pointed leaves and small three-petaled purple flowers. 'Purple Heart' boasts both true purple foliage and a sprawling habit that lends itself to use as a bold groundcover. In addition to being a popular, traditional house plant, it is becoming increasingly used as a bedding plant in more temperate regions.

The genus name honors John Tradescant the Elder, gardener to the Earl of Salisbury, who traveled to Virginia in 1617. The species name pallida refers to the pale flowers of some species.

Joseph Nelson Rose originally named 'Purple Heart' in 1911. Since then it has become a favorite of landscapers, especially in zones 8 and warmer.

Bloom color: Pink

Bloom time of year: Blooms all year

Sun requirements: Sun to Partial Shade

Cold hardiness: Zone 8a to Zone 11

Height: 12-18 in.