Do you have a green thumb? If not, don’t worry – the Tradescantia Nanouk is an easy-to-grow houseplant that is perfect for those who are new to gardening. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just starting your plant collection, this delightful plant will thrive in your care.
Keep reading to learn how to grow and care for T. nanouk, also known as “Fantasy Venice.”
Don’t worry – it’s easier than you might think!
Plant Facts
| Scientific name | Tradescantia nanouk |
| Common names | Fantasy Venice, spiderwort ‘nanouk’ |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Plant Type | Houseplant Perennial |
| Height and Width | 3 ½” tall and wide |
| Origin | Central, South America, the Netherlands |
| Flower colors | Yellow, white |
| Foliage color | Variegated white, purple, pink |
| Sun Exposure | Indirect sunlight |
| Soil Type & pH | Well-drained |
| Special features | Low-maintenance, drought-tolerant |
How to Grow Tradescantia Nanouk
Tradescantia Nanouk, also known as Tradescantia spathacea ‘Nanouk’, is a type of spiderwort plant. Although it is native to Mexico, South America, and Central America, the ‘Nanouk’ variety actually came from the Netherlands.
The plant has long, slender leaves that are dark green in color with purple, pink, and white stripes running down the center. The white or yellow flowers of the T. nanouk have three petals. The plant grows best in indirect sunlight and well-drained soil. Additionally, its vibrant coloration and leaf shape set it apart from other tradescantias.
T. nanouk is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is relatively resistant to pests and disease. The plant is named after its striking purple flowers.
T. nanouk can be propagated by division or stem cuttings. The plant typically blooms from late spring to early summer but this varies for indoor-grown houseplants.
Propagation
T. nanouk is a fast-growing plant that can easily be propagated by stem cuttings or division. With either method, you should see new growth within a few weeks.
By Division
For division, carefully dig up the entire plant and divide it into smaller clumps. Plant each clump in same pot filled with moist potting mix, and keep them in a sunny spot until they start to grow. Full sun isn’t recommended for adult plants, but it can be used to encourage new growth of young tradescantia plants.
By Stem Cuttings
For stem cuttings, simply take a 6-inch cutting from the tips of the plant and remove the bottom leaves. Place the cutting in a glass of water and wait for it to form roots, which usually takes about two weeks. Once the roots are well-established, you can transplant the cutting into a pot filled with moist potting mix.
Soil
For optimal growth, it is best to plant the nanouk in loose, well-drained soil with a neutral pH. Dense soil can suffocate the plant’s roots, preventing them from getting the oxygen they need. This trailing plant does not require much in the way of fertilizer, but it will benefit from occasional doses of nitrogen-rich compost or manure.
Choosing the right type of soil is essential for keeping them healthy. One popular option is perlite, which is a lightweight material that helps to improve drainage. However, perlite can also be quite dusty, so it’s important to wash it before use. Coarse sand will also work.
Orchid bark is another option that is often used for epiphytic plants, such as orchids. This type of bark has large pores that help to improve drainage and aeration, making it ideal for plants that require high humidity.
It’s also a good idea to include some drainage holes in the pot.
Pruning
While this plant is relatively easy to care for, it does require some pruning in order to keep it healthy and looking its best. It’s not necessary for the health of the plant, but can help it grow in a more attractive form.
The best time to prune is in the spring, after the plant has finished flowering. Start by removing any dead or damaged leaves, then trim back any leggy stems.
Next, cut back the main stem by about one-third. This will encourage the plant to produce new growth and will help to keep it compact and full.
Repotting and Transplanting
Tradescantia Nanouk is a fast-growing plant that is known for its trailing leaves and vibrant flowers. Because of its rapid growth, it will often need to be repotted in order to give it enough space to continue thriving.
Generally, you will need to report your Tradescantia Nanouk once a year. When you do report, make sure to use a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one. This will help to prevent root rot. Also, be sure to use a well-draining potting mix.
Once you have transplanted your Tradescantia Nanouk, water it well and place it in a bright location. With a little care, your Tradescantia Nanouk will continue to grow and thrive for many months to come.
How to Care for Tradescantia Nanouk
While it is a stunning plant, there is some debate over whether or not it is safe to have around pets and children. Some believe that the plant is toxic and can cause skin irritation, while others claim that it is not harmful.
The truth is that there is no definitive answer. Tradescantia nanouk does contain chemicals that can cause skin irritation and digestive upset, particularly in animals and children, but the plant is not considered to be toxic. It has mild toxicity to those who are more sensitive to its effects.
However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.
Water
T. nanouk is relatively drought-tolerant and does not need to be watered very often once established. In fact, it is best to allow the soil to dry out completely between watering.
Overwatering can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. When watering, be sure to use room-temperature water and water the plant at the base of the leaves, rather than from above.
With a little care, your T. nanouk will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment.
Sunlight
T. nanouk needs bright, indirect light to thrive. If you don’t have a spot in your home that receives indirect bright light, you can grow T. nanouk in a south-facing window.
If you can provide at least six hours of bright, indirect light per day, your T. nanouk will do well. If you can provide more than six hours of bright, indirect light per day, your T. nanouk will grow even faster.
The key is to avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves of this delicate plant. If you can provide the right kind of lighting, T. nanouk is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for.
With just a little bit of TLC, you can enjoy the beautiful purple flowers and lush green leaves of this striking plant.
Temperature and Humidity
It’s important to maintain a consistent temperature. T. nanouk prefers temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature drops below 60 degrees, the leaves may start to turn brown.
Second, humidity is also important for this plant. Aim for a humidity level around 40-50%. Too much or too little humidity can cause the leaves to brown as well.
With a little care, your Tradescantia nanouk will thrive and add some beautiful color to your home.
Fertilizer
For optimal results, fertilize the nanouk during its growing season (early spring and mid-summer). You can use compost or manure, as mentioned above, but this fast grower also appreciates a houseplant fertilizer applied at half the recommended strength.
Pest and diseases
There are a few issues to watch out for when you are growing T. nanouk.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny spider-like creatures that can suck the sap out of leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually drop off.
In severe cases, spider mite infestations can kill a plant. The best way to prevent spider mites is to keep your plants healthy and stress-free.
Spider mites thrive in warm, dry conditions, so make sure to water your plants regularly and mist them with room-temperature water.
You should also avoid using pesticides on your plants, as this can stress them out and make them more susceptible to infestation. If you do notice spider mites on your plant, you can treat them with a mixture of water and dish soap.
Simply mix one part soap with nine parts water and spray it on the affected leaves. You may need to repeat this treatment every few days until the problem is under control.
Fungus gnats are also common (though somewhat less so). These are common when you have overwatered the plant (you’ll know because the green foliage may appear wilted or pale, too). Simply hold off on watering and wait for the soil to dry out a bit. Adjust the watering schedule and only water when the top inch of the soil is totally dry to the touch.
Remember, this plant is not one that needs a ton of water – just a humid environment for its leaves.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by too much moisture, and it can cause the roots to rot and the plant to die.
Root rot is a common issue for houseplants, but it can be prevented with proper care. The first step is to make sure your plant is getting enough drainage. Water the plant thoroughly, but then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
If the plant is sitting in water, the roots will start to rot. You can also help prevent root rot by using a sterile potting mix and avoiding overcrowding your plants. If you do notice signs of root rot, such as yellowing leaves or wilting, it’s important to act quickly.
Remove the affected plant from its pot and carefully remove any dead or dying roots. Then replant in a fresh potting mix and water lightly. With proper care, you can prevent root rot and keep your houseplants healthy and thriving.
Leaf Color Loss
Leaf color loss can be caused by a number of factors, including sun damage, nutrient deficiency, or disease.
Fortunately, there are a few simple steps that can be taken to prevent and treat this problem. First, make sure that your plant is getting the right amount of light. If it is receiving too much sunlight, the leaves will begin to bleach out; if it is not receiving enough light, the leaves will turn yellow or brown.
Second, water your plant regularly and evenly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Finally, feed your plant with a well-balanced fertilizer to ensure that it is getting the nutrients it needs.
Common Varieties and Cultivars
Looking for a plant that is both eye-catching and easy to care for? Look no further than Tradescantia nanouk! This beautiful plant comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making it a perfect choice for adding a touch of personality to any indoor garden.
And best of all, T. nanouk is relatively low-maintenance, making it a great choice for plant enthusiasts or beginner gardeners.
Some of the most popular varieties of T. nanouk include ‘Red Velvet’, ‘Ruby’, and ‘Pink Lemonade’. ‘Red Velvet’ is a deep red color with purple highlights, while ‘Ruby’ is a vibrant shade of red. ‘Pink Lemonade’, as its name suggests, is a lovely pink color. Whatever your preference, there is sure to be a T. nanouk that is perfect for you!
FAQs
How often do you water Tradescantia Nanouk?
Water Tradescantia Nanouk when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How do you keep Tradescantia pink?
Tradescantia Nanouk’s vibrant pink color is a natural characteristic of the plant. Providing bright, indirect sunlight can help maintain its pink hue, as too much shade may cause it to fade to green.
How do you make Tradescantia Nanouk bloom?
Tradescantia Nanouk can produce small, inconspicuous flowers under the right conditions. To encourage blooming, provide bright, indirect sunlight, maintain consistent watering, and fertilize occasionally during the growing season.
What is the best window for Tradescantia Nanouk?
Tradescantia Nanouk thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Placing it near an east or west-facing window where it can receive several hours of indirect sunlight each day is ideal for healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Conclusion
Looking for a beautiful, trailing plant to add to your hanging basket or indoor container? Then look no further than tradescantia nanouk! This stunning plant is relatively easy to grow and care for, and it will quickly fill out any space with its cascading stems.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for houseplant, T. nanouk is a great option. With just a little bit of light and some regular watering, this plant will thrive. Try these tips to get your T. Nanouk started off on the right foot, and enjoy watching it grow!
See more: Tradescantia Pallida
*image by soniabonetruiz/depositphotos
