Plant This: Pale Puma is a Colorful, Versatile Turf Alternative
This fast-growing ground cover is a versatile turf alternative.
By Paula M. Bodah | Photography by Steve Craft
As more homeowners look for substitutes to thirsty green lawns, a colorful option is making its way into more Valley gardens. “Tradescantia pallida ‘Pale Puma’ is a great low-water ground cover,” says landscape architect Russell Greey. “It’s hardy, low-maintenance and produces low litter.”
A denser, less-fragile hybrid of the purple heart family, Pale Puma’s fleshy upright stems have glossy green leaves covered in silver hairs. It can be planted in shade and partial sun, Greey says, noting that depending on other conditions, it may struggle in full sun. “The color of the leaves will be a bit more purple in shadier locations and greener in sunnier areas,” he says. “The pop of silvery-purple is unexpected and really captures the eye.”
PLANT FACTS
Name: Tradescantia pallida ‘Pale Puma’
Size: 12″H by 12″-24″W
Elevations: USDA Zones 7B to 10B
Blooms: Summer; small, pinkish-white blossoms
Water needs: Low to moderate; allow soil to dry between waterings
Soil: Well-drained
Light: Full to partial sun
Maintenance: Low/none; no pruning necessary
Pale Puma is prized for its versatility. The plant thrives in small spaces where a dense ground cover is desired, but is also an excellent choice when used in large masses. It can thrive in pots and will trail over the sides, giving a glimpse of the darker purple of the underleaves. “This is also a standout in Mediterranean gardens when planted with olive trees, Acacia aneura or other species with silvery foliage,” Greey says. “It’s a great go-to for xeriscapes or rock gardens, as the ground cover fills in spaces between desert plant species. Pale Puma’s interesting structure also lends itself to shine in modern architectural designs.”
“It’s a great go-to for xeriscapes or rock gardens, as the ground cover fills in spaces between desert plant species.”
—Russell Greey, landscape architect
SOURCES
Landscape architect: Russell Greey, Greey|Pickett, Scottsdale, greeypickett.com
