Troubleshooting
Inch Plant 'Nanouk' problems — and how to fix them
Inch Plant 'Nanouk' (Tradescantia albiflora 'Nanouk') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Fading pink to green
Loss of variegation from insufficient light. Move to a brighter indirect spot to restore the pink and cream tones.
Leggy, bare stems
Natural with age and worsened by low light. Pinch tips regularly and propagate cuttings back into the pot to keep it full.
Soft, rotting stems
From overwatering or poor drainage. Let the surface dry between waterings and remove any mushy growth.
Spider mites and aphids
Appear in dry conditions and on new growth. Rinse the plant and treat with insecticidal soap as needed.
Prevent inch plant 'nanouk' problems before they start
Most inch plant 'nanouk' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for inch plant 'nanouk' in general rather than its problems? Read the full inch plant 'nanouk' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Inch Plant 'Nanouk' problems — FAQ
Why is my inch plant 'nanouk' fading pink to green?
Loss of variegation from insufficient light. Move to a brighter indirect spot to restore the pink and cream tones.
Why is my inch plant 'nanouk' leggy, bare stems?
Natural with age and worsened by low light. Pinch tips regularly and propagate cuttings back into the pot to keep it full.
Why is my inch plant 'nanouk' soft, rotting stems?
From overwatering or poor drainage. Let the surface dry between waterings and remove any mushy growth.
Why is my inch plant 'nanouk' spider mites and aphids?
Appear in dry conditions and on new growth. Rinse the plant and treat with insecticidal soap as needed.