Tradescantia mundula 'Lisa' – Bold Color, Low Effort
Tradescantia mundula 'Lisa' is a fast-growing trailing houseplant with eye-catching variegation in shades of pink, yellow, cream, and green. Sometimes mislabelled as ‘Quadricolor’, this cultivar stands out with its constantly shifting leaf patterns—some stems may revert to all-green or all-white, giving each plant a dynamic, evolving look. Perfect for bright shelves or hanging baskets, 'Lisa' brings movement and color without high maintenance.
Why Tradescantia 'Lisa' Stands Out
- Striking Variegation: Unpredictable mix of pink, white, and green on every vine
- Trailing Habit: Spills over planters and shelves with ease
- Compact Growth: Upright to 30 cm; stems trail 60 cm or more under ideal conditions
- Constant Variation: Color shifts with light, age, and growing conditions
Light, Water, and Soil Needs
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Low light reduces color; direct midday sun may scorch leaves.
- Water: Let top 2–3 cm of soil dry before rewatering. Never keep soil soggy.
- Soil: Use a fast-draining mix with perlite or sand to prevent compaction.
- Humidity: Thrives in average room humidity. Avoid overly dry air near heaters or vents.
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Temperature: Ideal range: 18–24 °C. Keep away from drafts or cold windows.
Growth Tips and Propagation
- Pruning: Trim regularly to maintain bushiness and prevent legginess.
- Propagation: Take stem cuttings and root in water or moist soil. Roots typically appear in 5–7 days.
- Semi-Hydro Friendly: Can be transitioned to LECA once well-rooted; great for clean, soil-free setups.
- Display Ideas: Use in hanging baskets, wall planters, or as a colorful trailing accent on windowsills.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Faded Color? Move to a brighter spot—color intensity is light-dependent.
- All-Green Stems? Normal trait—prune if you prefer more variegation.
- Yellowing Leaves? Usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage.
- Spider Mites or Aphids? Treat with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or use beneficial insects.
Taxonomy and Etymology
Tradescantia mundula was first described by Kunth in 1843. The genus honors John Tradescant the Elder and Younger, 17th-century English botanists. The species name mundula means "adorned" or "neat" in Latin—fitting for this polished, ornamental plant. 'Lisa' is a trade name for this particularly colorful variegated cultivar.
Is Tradescantia 'Lisa' Safe for Pets?
No — like other Tradescantia varieties, the sap may irritate skin and is considered toxic to pets. Keep out of reach of cats, dogs, and children.
Order Tradescantia mundula 'Lisa' Today
Looking for a vibrant trailing plant that’s as bold as it is easy? Tradescantia 'Lisa' offers ever-changing color with minimal effort. Order now and add tropical energy to your indoor jungle.
Tradescantia mundula 'Lisa'
Tradescantia mundula 'Lisa' is approximately 40 cm long and comes in a ⌀ 17 cm pot.
