Purple heart

Tradescantia pallida

Pet & Human Safety

People: Toxic to people (low severity)Pets: Toxic to pets

Hazardous parts

flowers, leaves, roots, sap/juice, stems

Preparation

Not yet checked.

Hazard type

Not yet checked.

Hazard route

eating the plant; sap on skin

How complete this information is

The safety information on this page is partial. Where a source covers a point, it is shown; where none does, the page says so.

Toxic to pets

Treat this plant as toxic to cats and dogs. Mouth and stomach irritation; redness and skin irritation from sap, in humans and pets.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: USDA zones 10a to 11b (NC State); may return in protected areas or mild winters.
Water needs: low
Mature size: Height about 1 ft, width 1 to 2 ft (NC State).
Family: Commelinaceae (NC State)
Where it comes from: Mexico (NC State).

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

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