Product description
Baby Tradescantia Sillamontana Variegata, also commonly known as the Wandering Dude or Fuzzy Sillamontana, is a small house plant with semi-succulent leaves which are mid-green in colour, striped with light green and creamy white. The variegation creates a pinstriped effect, and tiny, white hairs give the foliage the fuzzy effect from which it gained its common name.
These indoor plants will grow well in bright, indirect light, although they can also handle some shade. They are relatively drought tolerant plants and only need watering once the top of the soil has dried out, and they will grow well in regular household humidity. Some light pruning can maintain the shape of these plants if necessary.
The miniature size of this baby plant makes it perfect for smaller homes and spaces. It would look fabulous in the living room, as bedroom plants or bathroom plants, but a baby plant is also great as a desk plant to brighten up an office, or to brighten up a small shelf.
It’s not unusual to give your plant a name… so don’t hesitate to choose one that you think suits the plant! Try naming your plant with the first name or word that you think of when you look at it - that’s how we ended up with an orchid named Clover and spider plant called Joseph.
House Plant Size Guide
House plants come in a wide array of shapes and sizes depending on the variety and maturity of the plant.
6cm/12cm/15cm/19cm/23cm nursery pots are the most common size of pot that they are sold in. This measurement is the diameter at the top of the pot.
12cm potted plants are the most popular providing great value for money and an instant impact. Larger plants that come in pots of 20cm+ are great for making a statement in any room and can represent years of growth to get to that level of maturity and size.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
Instructions
Top Tip
Pinch back the stems of your Tradescantia regularly to encourage bushier growth and maintain its compact, lush appearance. If the plant becomes leggy, take cuttings from healthy stems and replant them to refresh its shape. Place the plant in a spot where it receives bright, filtered light to maintain its vibrant leaf colours, as too much shade can dull its appearance.
How to Water
Tradescantia prefers its soil to remain slightly moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch, allowing any excess water to drain away completely. During the active growing season, increase watering slightly, but reduce it in winter when the plant’s growth slows. Always use lukewarm water to avoid shocking the roots, and ensure the plant is never left sitting in stagnant water.
How to Plant
To plant Tradescantia, choose a pot with good drainage and fill it with a light, well-draining potting mix such as one made for houseplants or mixed with perlite. Ensure the plant is placed in a bright location with indirect sunlight to encourage its vibrant foliage. When re-potting, place the Tradescantia at the same soil level as before, gently firm the soil around the roots, and water lightly. Tradescantia can also thrive in hanging baskets, allowing its trailing stems to cascade beautifully.