Tradescantia navicularis
Plant Information:
Botanical Name: Tradescantia navicularis
Common Name: Mexican Chain Plant
Family: Commelinaceae
Origin: Mexico
Type: Tropical Color
Size: 4"h x 18"w
Exposure: Sun
Zones:
Butterflies: No
Hummingbirds: No
Container Size: Large Pot Band
I was fortunate to have been given a start of Mexican Chain Plant by some plant geek friends on the east coast. One thing I think is quite unique about it is how its form and leaf color vary depending on light and moisture. It can be treated like a succulent with little water and full sun where it takes on an almost animal-like appearance with dark brownish leaves packed really tight. If given more water and maybe a slightly shaded location, its leaves are green with stems that are more stretched out. In the fall it rewards you with cute pink flowers. Plant Mexican Chain Plant in a container so you can bring it inside and grow it as a houseplant during winter. It is sometimes listed as Callisia navicularis.