Baby Bunny Bellies - Care Sheet

Overview

Baby Bunny Bellies (Tradescantia chrysophylla) is a charming, low-maintenance houseplant known for its soft, velvety leaves and trailing growth habit. The fuzzy green foliage feels like a baby bunny’s belly, and the undersides often display a lovely purplish hue. This Tradescantia is easy to care for, making it a favorite for beginners and experienced plant lovers alike. It’s ideal for hanging baskets or trailing from shelves, adding a touch of whimsy to any indoor space.

Quick Facts

Light

Baby Bunny Bellies thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near an east- or north-facing window, or a few feet back from a south- or west-facing window. While it can tolerate partial shade, too little light may cause leggy growth and less vibrant foliage. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves.

Water

Water your Baby Bunny Bellies when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry. During spring and summer, water more liberally, but always ensure the pot drains well. In winter, reduce watering frequency, allowing the soil to dry out a bit more between sessions. Overwatering is a common issue, so err on the side of caution.

Humidity

This plant is adaptable to average household humidity levels (30–60%). It doesn’t require a humidifier or frequent misting, but occasional misting can help keep the leaves looking lush, especially in dry environments.

Temperature

Baby Bunny Bellies prefers temperatures between 18–29°C (65–85°F). It can tolerate brief dips down to 7°C (45°F), but prolonged exposure to cold or drafts can damage the plant. Keep it away from heaters, air conditioners, and drafty windows.

Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat, perlite, and sand, or a standard houseplant mix with added grit. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Choose a pot with drainage holes, and avoid letting the plant sit in water.

Feeding

Feed Baby Bunny Bellies with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize in fall and winter, as the plant’s growth slows during these months.

Repotting

Repot every 1–2 years, or when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes. The best time to repot is in spring. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid water retention in excess soil.

Propagation

Baby Bunny Bellies is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take a 4–6 inch (10–15 cm) cutting just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or moist soil. Roots should develop within 1–2 weeks. Once rooted, transfer to a small pot with well-draining soil.

Common Problems

Leggy Growth

Caused by insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter spot and trim back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.

Yellowing Leaves

Often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Let the soil dry out more between waterings and check for root rot.

Leaf Drop

Can result from sudden temperature changes, drafts, or underwatering. Keep the plant in a stable environment and water consistently.

Slow Growth

May occur in low light or during winter dormancy. Ensure adequate light and resume regular feeding in spring.

Toxicity & Pet Safety

Baby Bunny Bellies is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and small children.

Seasonal Care

In spring and summer, water more frequently and fertilize monthly. In fall and winter, reduce watering and stop fertilizing. Watch for pests like spider mites and mealybugs, which can appear year-round but are more common in dry, warm conditions.

Quick Tips

• Place in bright, indirect light for best growth.
• Let the top inch of soil dry between waterings.
• Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot.
• Propagate easily from stem cuttings in water or soil.
• Keep away from pets and children due to toxicity.
• Repot every 1–2 years in spring.
• Trim leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.