Introducing the low-maintenance trailing pink Panther plant– also known as Tradescantia 'Callisia repens', is sure to turn heads. This was previously categorized under the genus Tradescantia, it's possible that some websites are using the name "Tradescantia Callisia repens." The correct scientific name for the plant is Callisia repens because it has since been reclassified under the genus Callisia.  

The Pink Panther plant is named after the famous cartoon character, the Pink Panther. The plant gets its name from the pink stripes on its green leaves, which resemble the distinctive pink color of the cartoon character. It has also several other common names such as pink lady turtle vine, tradescantia pink panther, or Callisia tricolor.   

This tropical houseplant is like a burst of joy with its stunning small lavender-green leaves that turn bright pink and variegated in bright sunlight. Its delicate but vibrant leaves puff out and shoot off consistently, giving your space a lush and beautiful touch in no time. It has reddish stems that can grow up to 12 inches tall and 24 inches wide.  It's perfect for tiny spaces like your home, office, or even your desk!   

The fun doesn't stop there because, during summertime, the vibrant Pink Panther even surprises you with tiny white flowers blooming right before your eyes – talk about adding some extra pizzazz! It's always a good idea to keep this mildly toxic Callisia repens out of the reach of Children and pets because if consumed it could be problematic. Plus, the pink panther can be easily propagated by stem cuttings. 

Watering Needs 

Many trailing succulents, like the pink panther, thrive when cared for properly by using the "soak and dry" technique. This involves giving your Callisia repens a generous watering followed by allowing it to completely dry out before watering again. 

For potted or outdoor pink panther succulents during the growing season (Spring and summer), it's recommended to give them a deep-water soak once or twice a month when the soil is dry. But, in rainy seasons or cold weather (dormant period), it's best to withhold watering your succulents. The Tradescantia pink panther likes to be watered regularly, but it's important to not overdo it. Over-watering can lead to root rot, which is a condition where the roots become damaged and can no longer absorb water properly.   

Use a water meter or place your finger into the soil and if it is dry an inch down then you should water your plant.  Make sure that you are also using porous sandy soil and make sure if it is in a pot, then make sure there is a drainage hole to avoid overwatering.   

Light Requirements 

Like many other succulents, the pink panther also requires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive.  These plants require at least six hours of strong light each day to survive, although partial shade in the afternoon is often preferable - especially in hotter climates where the plant might become stressed by the intense heat of the afternoon sun.  

In bright light, its lavender-green leaves turn pink and variegated making it a true showstopper. It's crucial to place your succulents away from any areas with constant direct sunlight, as doing so could result in burned foliage.   

If the plant is not getting enough light, it may become leggy, which means that the stems will become long and thin, and the leaves may lose their variegated color. To prevent this, it's important to keep the plant in a location where it can receive plenty of light, but not direct sunlight. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The pink panther likes very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 5.6- 6.5. Callisia requires fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Your soil must have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity, just like desert soil.  Soggy wet soil can damage your succulents and contribute to bacterial and fungal rot. In addition, because of a lack of oxygen, soggy soil substitutes air pockets with water, resulting in an anaerobic environment that can kill your plant.  

As an alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. Ideally, you want to use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive.   

When it comes to fertilizer, a small amount of natural fertilizer with lower doses of NPK (5-10-5) applied once a year in springtime encourages nutrient absorption and keeps your hanging-inch plant healthy. Remember, never fertilize your pink panther if it has recently been replanted or if it is experiencing problems, as it is not a medicine. Analyze the plant and make adjustments as needed. 

Hardiness Zones & More 

Typically grown in hot, arid desert regions, the pink plant thrives indoors in warm, dry surroundings. If you live in USDA zones 10-12, you can also grow these trailing Callisia repens outdoors year-round, but they are not cold- or frost-tolerant, so you should plant them indoors or put them in a pot and move them indoors during the winter if you live outside of these regions.  

The ideal temperature range for your Pink Panther is between 64°F and 72°F. It should be fine even if the temperature drops to 50°F at night. 

Remember, frost can damage the leaves, causing them to turn brown and lose their vibrant pink color.  It's important to protect the plant from further damage by keeping it in a warm place away from cold, drafty windows and air vents if you are growing it indoors in a cold climate. 

Don't miss out on adding the Callisia repens pink panther to your garden! Order now and enjoy its beauty for years to come.