Cyanotis (Tradescantia) somaliensis
kitten ears
Soft, fuzzy leaves make this trailing plant irresistable. Pale, triangular purple flowers sometimes appear in summer on plants in bright light.
 Height | 4–8in |
|---|---|
 Width | 8–12in |
 Tolerates | Drought, Heat, Pots |
 Water needs | Moderate |
Water this plant regularly, when the top inch or so of soil feels dry. In a pot slowly water the entire surface until water comes out of the bottom of your pot. If this plant is pushed to totally dry out for extended period of time the older lower leaves will shrivel and eventually the older parts of stems will dry up and die. If this happens the tops of the stems can be rerooted fairly easily. | |
 Hardy to | 30°F |
 Exposure | Part Sun – Full Sun |
 Plant traits | Hanging, Succulent |
 Indoor / outdoor | Indoor or Outdoor |
 Drainage | In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Sandy Soil |
 Fertilizing | All Purpose |
 Origin | Somalia |
 California native | No |
 Sunset zones | 16, 17, 20–24, H2 |
Growing Notes
Grows compact and grey in hot direct sun, but loosens up and turns green in more shade.
Great for a hanging pot, or tall pot where it can cascade. Fun too in a shallow bowl, where it can creep along a desk or mantle.
This plant can be pruned back hard and will flush back thick and quick. Often doing this once a year in late spring is a good tactic to keep the plant looking tidy.
Easily grown by cutting, either directly into well drained soil, or by adding to a glass of water (changed weekly) until roots form. This plant can even be grown in only water for long periods of time.
We don't typically see this cultivar grown in the ground, but if you succeed in grounding it please do let us know!
The above information reflects the observations of Grubb and Nadler and our extended plant community. We always consider input from fellow horticulturists and welcome feedback from those with additional information on the culture of this plant.
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