Genus , related to Tradescantia, of about 20 species of creeping, spreading, or suberect, evergreen perennials, and (rarely) annuals, from forest margins in S.E. US, Mexico, and tropical North and South America. They are grown for their attractive, alternate, succulent leaves. Callisia elegans (sometimes sold as Setcreasia striata) has small leaves and long stems - the upper surface of the foliage as dull and boldly striped with white lines. The leaves of C. fragrans turn pink in bright light. Use this plant in hangind baskets or as ground cover.