tradescantia zebrina 'burgundy wandering jew

The Home Tome

Tradescantia Varieties: 15 Common And Rare Wandering Jew Plants

Also, commonly referred to as the Spiderwort, the Tradescantia plant is a striking houseplant with varied foliage colors. The Tradescantia species is a common option for houseplant growers because it doubles as a standard and trailing houseplant.

From, green, white, pink, red, and burgundy, their foliage colors are sure to light up any corner in your home or working space.

Little wonder, it is commonly propagated as an indoor houseplant rather than an outdoor houseplant. The best of the Tradescantia plant is gotten when they are grown as bushy plants.

A stress-free propagation is guaranteed once you can provide moderate watering, moist soil, an appropriate temperature, and a pest-free environment for your Tradescantia plant.

We have eased off the stress of searching for the Tradescantia variety to propagate in your home by providing a list of the most colorful Tradescantia varieties.

Tradescantia Plant Basic Information and Care Tips

This is the profile of the Tradescantia plant and tips that would ensure a hitch-free propagation for you:

Do well to follow these tips once you start your Propagation journey.

• The Tradescantia plant must be kept out of the reach of children.
• Regularly look for pest infestations from Aphids, Spider mites, and Mealybugs. Use a recommended insecticide to combat pest infestation in severe cases.
• If your kid or pet ingests the Tradescantia plant, attempt removing leaves from the mouth before going to the clinic or the Veterinary doctor as the case may be.
• Modify your schedule to cater to the watering needs of the plant. Although they are drought-tolerant, prolonged neglect can permanently damage your Tradescantia plant.
• Use brightly colored containers to pot your plant.
• Ensure the leaves are misted regularly.
• Avoid changing the environment of this plant to avoid environmental or transplant shock.
• In the case of root rot which is often caused by overwatering, stay off watering for a while till the root recovers. If there is no noticeable recovery, repot the plant to give it a fresh start.
• Ensure your Tradescantia plant receives at least 4 hours of sunlight daily.
• Make use of drilled containers that would allow proper drainage of water. This helps prevent waterlogged soil.

15 Common And Rare Tradescantia Varieties

They are great options for beginners and experienced houseplant growers since they are affordable, easy to propagate, and are low-maintenance plants. If you want a full blast of colors in your home, choosing several options out of the 15 options listed would not be a bad idea.

1. Tradescantia Purple Heart

This plant is considered one of the most attractive Tradescantia varieties. Both the upper and lower foliage color is purple. The thin, narrow and pointed purple leaves make it a striking plant for an aesthetic effect in the home.

They are mostly grown as indoor houseplants for their bright and attractive color as the Purpleheart plant adds pops of color in any location it is placed in the home, especially when they are placed in colorful containers and conspicuous locations.

The Tradescantia Purpleheart species is a trailing plant, so they could be placed in dangle baskets or hanging shelves for a better view of their beauty. During their bloom time, they exude small clusters of petal flowers. They are low-maintenance plants , although they require bright light to preserve their bright foliage color and vigor.

Ensure that their location in your home allows them access to bright indirect sunlight. They thrive when they are provided with moderate watering, moist organic soil, bright indirect sunlight, suitable containers, and appropriate temperate conditions. When properly tended to, they can grow up to 18 inches. 

2. Tradescantia Zebrina

The lance-shaped leaves of the Tradescantia Zebrina have an alluring effect on any home. The multicolored plant has a combination of green and purple and makes a good option for ground covers since it is a trailing plant.

Most growers, however, grow them as indoor plants where they can be placed to complement the interior decoration of the home.

The foliage color is not the only attractive feature of this plant, during spring, this plant blooms and produces rose-like flowers, although this is reserved for outdoor propagated Tradescantia Zebrinas. This plant can grow up to 9 inches as a trailing plant.

Their aesthetic effect on any home is appreciated when there is a full mass of this variety. Most growers prefer a bushy Tradescantia Zebrina plant, so they persistently snip off young pups. This is a technique that enhances the speedy growth of your Zebrina plant.

You are sure to have a bushy Zebrina if you adopt this technique alongside applying an adequate amount of fertilizer to the Tradescantia Zebrina plant. This plant should be watered thoroughly, although the soil must never become swampy as it could lead to root rot. 

3. Tradescantia Albiflora

Tradescantia albiflora is regarded as the long name for a white giant inch plant with large blue-green leaves striped and it happens to be very easy to care for. This is a really stunning plant, it prefers bright indirect light to direct light and insufficient light can cause the foliage color to start fading. To boost the health of this variety, you can feed it plant food and give it plenty of indirect light.

If the ideal light setting is provided for this plant then you can expect it to grow into a full lush gorgeous plant. If it does have a pest infestation, you can shower it with fresh water and spray it with neem oil.

This plant also enjoys a humid environment and although it has an uptight growing habit, it is easy to care for. It is one of the common varieties of Tradescantia plants.

4. Tradescantia Burgundy

Amongst other species of the Tradescantia plant, house plant growers consider the Tradescantia Burgundy plant one of the most stunning varieties. The wide burgundy leaves of this plant easily captivate onlookers in any home. This trailing can be grown as a standard houseplant, although it requires that the growers prune them persistently.

The attractiveness of the Tradescantia Burgundy is enhanced when they are grown in brightly colored containers. Their beauty is toned down when they are positioned in inconspicuous corners since they are showy houseplants. This variety is affordable, easy to propagate, and a low-maintenance plant.

Growers are expected to mist their leaves regularly to preserve their bright color, eliminate dust, and improve the humidity level of the environment. This variety must be placed in a location where it can receive sufficient lighting.

Depriving the Tradescantia Burgundy of adequate lighting is the fastest killer to its striking color and foliage vigor. If the location of your home does not allow access to sufficient sunlight, make use of artificial light from bulbs and lamps. 

5. Tradescantia Lilac 

This variety is commonly sold under the tag name “Wandering Jew Lilac”. The unique foliage design of the Tradescantia makes it a popular option for houseplant growers. The dominant colors of this plant are lilac and shades of green. The striped-colored plant can double as a standard houseplant or a trailing one.

This plant can grow up to 2 ft. in height and width. Snipping off young tendrils encourages faster growth for a bushier plant. They are sure to thrive when they are provided with their basic growth needs which are moderate watering, organic soil, appropriate container, and a warm environment.

Ensure the soil does not completely dry out before watering it as this can affect the foliage color and vigor of the plant. They are to be watered at least once a week depending on the temperate condition of your environment. This variety can be ordered from nearby nurseries or online plant stores.

6. Tridescantia Nanouk

The Tradescantia Nanouk is also known as the Fantasy Venice and it is a tender evergreen you can’t help but love for its bright beautiful colors. This plant is often grown as an ornamental plant and it also works as a trailing border around rocks and enclosed gardens. This plant can also be landscaped in a covered garden.

This is another popular variety and it is a lot similar to the pink stripes. Fantasy Venice will thrive in a container placed on a patio, on hanging baskets, or outside.

It also loves bright indirect light but it will grow well in partial shades and full sun outdoor. It is important to monitor how much sun this variety is getting especially if you live in a hot climate as too much sun can turn the leaves brown.

7. Pink Stripes

The Pink striped Tradescantia belongs to the class of most striking Tradescantia varieties. This plant is easily recognizable for its foliage color which has hues of pink. The thin-shaped plant can be grown as an indoor and outdoor plant, but houseplant growers consider it a favorable option for indoor propagation. This variety is quite rare, so they are more expensive than other varieties.

You can order this variety from online plant stores. Once your Tradescantia plant is delivered, do not be quick to apply fertilizers to boost their growth. Allow the plant to adjust to the temperate condition of your home. Environmental shock is a condition where the plant is affected by a change in temperature.

Sometimes, it can lead to falling leaves or sparse growth of the plant if not properly tended to. If you want a full mass of the Pink stripes, pinch back early pups to promote bushy growth.   The growth needs of this variety are adequate watering which is preferably once a week, moist soil, and a warm environment. 

8. Tradescantia Andersonia Blushing Bride

This is one variety that cannot go unnoticed regardless of its location in the home. This stunning plant has a combination of green and white as foliage colors; some varieties have theirs as green and pink. The beauty of this variety is appreciated when they are bushy and neatly pruned.

They can be grown as indoor or outdoor houseplants. The added advantage for Blushing Bride plants propagated outdoors is they produce lilac petals during bloom time. They would have no small effect on the interior design of your home.

If you are big on interior aesthetics for home, make use of brightly colored pots to enhance their attractiveness. Ensure the pot chosen is well drilled to allow proper drainage of water. If the soil gets swamped as a result of overwatering, stay off watering till the soil is almost dried.  

Like most varieties, the Blushing Bride plant is easy to propagate and maintain. Since this plant is a trailing houseplant, you should look out for  creative ways  to display them around your home. 

9. Tradescantia Tricolor

A striped-colored houseplant is sure to captivate your attention any day. The Tradescantia Tricolor boasts of three bright colors- green, white, and pink. This variety has its origin in the Caribbean, Mexico, and South America. They can be propagated as both indoor and outdoor houseplants.

They thrive in temperatures between 65 °F-75 °F. When properly tended to, they can grow up to 9 inches in height and 24 inches in width. Proper lighting, adequate watering, organic soil, the subtle application of liquid-based fertilizer, and warm environments are the basic needs of the Tradescantia Tricolor.

When grown indoors, the Tradescantia Tricolor must be kept in a bright environment to preserve its brilliant foliage color and vigor. If grown outdoors, persistently lookout for pests as this variety is susceptible to Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.

The Tradescantia Tricolor is highly toxic, so it must be kept out of the reach of kids and pets. Growers are expected to wear gloves while tending to this plant because direct contact with the sap can cause irritable reactions. 

10. Tradescantia Ohioensis

This is commonly known as Ohio spiderwort and it doesn’t look like the regular variety of spiderwort rather the leaves are long and arching which looks just like grass. It does have branched erect stems of bluejacket or it can be tinged purple and bear-like leaves. This plant has flowers that bloom throughout the season.

Ohio spiderworts can grow as tall as 2-3 feet but they are mainly loved and grown for their attractive foliage. The leaves are also reported to be edible, it is believed that they can be eaten fresh or cooked.

In addition, the leaves can be used as medicine in some cultures. The seeds are edible as well and they can be roasted and ground into a powder to be tossed in soups. The foliage is non-toxic to animals as well.

11. Tradescantia Red gem

This attractive lot is a unique variety due to its red foliage color. The Tradescantia Red gem deviates from the regular green, white and pink color that most Tradescantia varieties have. You would tone down the beauty of this plant if you use drab or regular containers.

Use attractive containers for potting and see the pop of colors this plant would add to your home. They are popular houseplants, so they can be easily purchased from nearby nurseries or online stores like Amazon.

This plant is sure to bloom when they are adequately watered, kept away from drafts, and positioned in brightly-lit areas and in warm temperate conditions. Regularly mist the leaves of this plant to improve the humidity level of your environment; if not, humidifiers can come in handy.

The most appropriate positions for this plant within a home are near windows or areas with artificial light. Proper lighting preserves the brilliance of your Tradescantia Red Gem.

12. Tradescantia Sillamontana

This is one of the tradescantia varieties that can be planted in well-drained soils and placed in the sun or partial shades. Tradescantia Sillamontana is known as white velvet wandering Jew or cobweb spiderwort. This plant is round shaped and is thickly padded into some typical type of succulent slices and happens to be covered with a protective layer of silvery hair.

Tradescantia Sillamontana is a really gorgeous plant although it might look plain at first. This easy-to-grow plant is also fast-growing and makes an excellent ground cover in warmer climates.

A morning sun is a great option for this plant. To promote healthy growth, keep the soil moist regularly but not wet. It may grow up to 6 or 18 inches with a spread of 2 feet with proper care and avoid too much exposure to the sun as it may burn the leaves.

13. Tradescantia Fluminensis

The foliage colors of this variety range from shades of green to lemon, cream, and white. This plant curls beautifully when they mature and start to trail. This flurry variety is easy to maintain and is a good option if you are just starting as a houseplant grower.

The Tradescantia Fluminensis must be provided with moist soil that must be frequently watered. Although they are drought-tolerant, they should not be deprived of adequate watering for long. In the same regard, they should be overwatered as this could lead to root rot.

Their leaves must be regularly misted to improve the humidity of the plant . They can be placed in dangle baskets or hanging shelves around the home. Ensure they are within the reach of bright light to prevent the bright leaves from fading.

The appropriate temperature for the Tradescantia Fluminensis is between 65 °F-75 °F. Regularly pinching early growth forces the Tradescantia plant to grow out more stems which results in a bushy yet beautiful houseplant for you. 

14. Tradescantia Baby Bunny Ears

Although this plant is not as colorful as other varieties , the fuzzy foliage and trailing stem easily captivate onlookers. The compact-sized leaves make up for their seemingly regular color, unlike other varieties that have narrow and long leaves. They are very common varieties that are easy to propagate and maintain.

This plant tends to get bushy in a short while especially if they are pruned regularly. This means the plant must be adequately watered so that no aspect of the plant is deprived of sufficient watering. It is also applicable to their lighting conditions.

The Baby Bunny Ear plant must be placed in a location where it can receive bright indirect sunlight. If grown outdoors, they should be placed in shaded areas to prevent direct exposure to sunlight whilst getting sufficient lighting needed to thrive.

Ensure they are grown in a pest-free environment to preserve the foliage appearance and life span of your Baby Bunny Ears plant.

15. Rhoeo Oyster

Rhoeo Oyster is a variety of tradescantia that is also known as the oyster plant and it’s one that can make your home decor look absolutely stunning. This tradescantia variety grows flowers that grow directly from the base while most people enjoy planting it for its tricolor and green leaves. This is a popular eye-catching compact plant.

This tradescantia variety is for tradescantia collectors that prefer bigger leaves. Rhoeo plant has stripes of purplish colors which also include green, white, and pink which is a lot similar to the tradescantia tricolor but this has bigger leavers.

We are sure you had a swell time going through these Tradescantia varieties. If the tips provided are followed, you are sure to have an easy propagation journey.

You could link up with other houseplant growers in your community to glean from their experience and share your propagation journey. Do us the honor of sharing your propagation journey after choosing the variety that suits your fancy.

More on plant varieties:

• Dieffenbachia Varieties: 9 Varieties To Grow Today
• 6 Common & Rare Spider Plant Varieties To Propagate Today
• Spirea Varieties: 10 Common & Rare Types Of Spirea
• Croton Plant Varieties, Problems, FAQs (Complete Guide)
• Peperomia Varieties: 12 Types Of Peperomia Plants
• Coneflower Varieties: 9 Common And Rare Types Of Cone Flowers
• Scindapsus Varieties: 6 Types Of Scindapsus Plants To Grow Today
• Heuchera Variety: 10 Common And Rare Types Of Heuchera

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• House & Home
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Wandering Jew Care: How to Grow a Long and Luscious Inch Plant (Tradescantia Zebrina)

Tradescantia zebrina (commonly known as wandering Jew, spiderwort, or inch plant) is popular for a reason: This beginner-friendly houseplant is low-maintenance and grows quickly. It’s also super easy to propagate more plants so you can fill your home with more of the colorful striped foliage the species is known for.

Written by Linda Ly

When it comes to vigorous, colorful, and easy-to-grow hanging houseplants, there aren’t many that can compare to Tradescantia zebrina (known more commonly as wandering Jew—and I’ll touch on the history of that name below). Whether you’re a houseplant beginner or a veteran, most indoor gardeners have owned one of these potted plants at some point. 

Keep reading for everything you need to know about Tradescantia zebrina and growing this stunning houseplant in your own home.

Disclosure: If you shop from my article or make a purchase through one of my links, I may receive commissions on some of the products I recommend.

About inch plants

Natural habitat.

Tradescantia zebrina is a native of Central and South America, from Mexico down to Colombia, as well as the Caribbean. Here, it forms part of the undergrowth in lightly forested and often very moist areas. It can form very dense, wide mats thanks to its creeping growth pattern and ability to throw roots extremely quickly.

Unfortunately, its vigorous growth has also made Tradescantia zebrina an invasive plant in some regions. This includes Hawaii, Brazil, and Australia, where the species easily takes hold in moist, forested areas.

As a 2019 study carried out in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest notes, this is problematic due to the species choking out native plants.

Some of the above was caused by careless gardeners allowing bits of the plant to get into the wild, where they quickly root. If you’d like to grow spiderworts like this one in your garden, please make sure to dispose properly of any trimmings left after pruning!

This also applies to zebrina’s popular cousins, like Tradescantia fluminensis, T. pallida, and T. spathacea.

Description

It’s not difficult to see why Tradescantia zebrina gained popularity as a houseplant. Wandering spiderwort plants (not to be confused with spider plants , another beginner-friendly species) are low-maintenance and grow just about anywhere—they even just grow in water !

Easy care and quick growth aside, spiderworts are also just good-looking plants. The pointed, oval leaves on thin, fleshy stems overlap slightly and are characterized by their zebra pattern in purple and silvery green. The leaf undersides are deep purple in color and the tiny, three-petaled flowers are bright pink.

Although this species is naturally a creeping plant, it’s often grown indoors in hanging planters. As long as the plant is provided with enough light, the foliage will be very dense and brightly colored, forming a spectacular waterfall that can reach more than 3 feet in length.

What’s in a name? In the case of common houseplants, sometimes a lot.

Tradescantia zebrina is a classic houseplant (I found mention of it in a 1964 German book about houseplants, but it’s probably been around longer than that!) and among most English speakers, it has long been known as wandering Jew. This is probably a reference to the “wandering” nature of the plant, as it does have a creeping growth pattern.

The legend of the wandering Jew is hundreds of years old and is now commonly considered to be rooted in antisemitism. It describes a Jewish man cursed to walk the planet until the Second Coming because he taunted Jesus on his way to the cross.

Because of this, the plant name has partly fallen out of fashion and has been the source of much debate in the plant world over the past few years. 

Some plant enthusiasts have embraced the alternative “wandering dude,” which I personally think is a great option.

“Inch plant” (houseplant enthusiasts don’t agree on whether this refers to the fact that it can grow an inch a day, or that you only need an inch of stem to propagate it), “spiderwort,” or “wandering spiderwort” are also popular alternatives, though these are common names for other Tradescantia varieties, such as Tradescantia Nanouk.

The best way to avoid any confusion is to just stick to the scientific name.

Inch plant varieties

There are three subspecies of inch plant (wandering Jew): Tradescantia zebrina var. zebrina, var. flocculosa, and var. mollipila. Unsurprisingly, after it having been a popular houseplant for so many years, nurseries have also managed to create a whole bunch of cultivars through selective cultivation.

A few of the popular Tradescantia zebrina cultivars you may come across in your local plant store include, but are certainly not limited to:

• Tradescantia zebrina ‘Quadricolor’: Yep, as the name suggests, this one adds an extra color to the mix. The leaves are cream, pink-purple, light green, and dark green.
• Tradescantia zebrina ‘Burgundy’: Characterized by its very dark purple coloration.
• Tradescantia zebrina ‘Silver Plus’: Less purple, more shiny silver.
• Tradescantia zebrina ‘Red Gem’: Less silver, more intense (light) purple.
• Tradescantia zebrina ‘Purple Joy’: Less silver, more dark purple. 
• Tradescantia zebrina ‘Tikal’: A rare, naturally occurring variety that collectors pay a pretty penny for.

Do keep in mind that most of these cultivars aren’t patented and the amount of mislabeling and variation within a cultivar are both huge. Just growing your wandering Jew in lower-light conditions can completely change the way it looks, so it’s not surprising that confusion sometimes reigns supreme.

Luckily, care is the same across all cultivars, so your best bet is to just enjoy your plant even if you’re not sure what Tradescantia variety you’re dealing with!

Where to buy wandering Jew plants:

• California Tropicals
• Daylily Nursery
• The Green Escape

Caring for an inch plant

Light and temperature.

It’s important to provide your Tradescantia zebrina with enough light. It’s tempting to use plants to brighten up dark, shaded spots in your home, but that just doesn’t work with this one: It loses its dense growth pattern and beautiful coloration in low light.

To prevent your wandering dude plant from growing sparse and green, place it near a window that gets bright indirect light. Some full sun isn’t a problem either, but do make sure you acclimate it gradually to a higher light location.

Temperature-wise, this species is a lot hardier than many of the tender tropicals we like to grow in our homes (like Anthurium andraeanum and Begonia maculata ).

Wandering dude plants can handle a very wide range of temps, making it perfect for those chillier windowsills that your other plants may not appreciate. Room temperature is ideal, but anything between 50°F to 85°F will keep them happy.

Water and humidity

Your Tradescantia zebrina will appreciate lightly moist soil. You can water a bit more during the summer months, when the plant is actively growing and needs a lot of moisture, and less during winter, when soil tends to take significantly longer to dry. 

If you’re not sure whether it’s time to water your wandering Jew plant yet, you can always turn to the age-old trick of sticking a finger in the soil.

• If it still feels damp, wait a little longer, until the first inch or two has dried. 
• If it feels bone dry, you’ve waited too long; you may also see limp leaves on your plant at this point. It’ll bounce back, but not always without lasting damage. 
• If the soil feels wet, you watered too much and need to keep an eye out for root rot.

As for humidity, given its rather wet natural habitat, wandering Jew does appreciate higher air moisture levels. The great thing is, though, that it doesn’t demand it. As long as you keep its soil lightly moist and the air isn’t extremely dry, your plant should do well.

Soil and planting

Wandering Jew is not fussy about its potting mixture at all. I’ve grown it in pure houseplant potting soil with no additives. If you do want to take things to the next level, you can add some perlite and/or peat moss, although this is really not a must. 

Most houseplant enthusiasts like to place their wandering Jew in a hanging planter so they can enjoy the look of the leaves cascading down. This is not a must, though. You can also emphasize the species’ creeping growth habit by filling up a large, shallow planter, growing it in a terrarium, or even keeping it in water on a semi-permanent basis.

Recommended products for wandering Jew plant care:

• FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil
• Espoma Organic Potting Mix
• Perfect Plants Organic Perlite

Fertilizing

Like most other houseplants, Tradescantia zebrina appreciates a bit of fertilizer during the growing season, which extends from spring to early fall. You can use a normal houseplant fertilizer according to the instructions on the bottle.

Don’t fertilize during the winter months unless your plant is growing well. It doesn’t need extra nutrients if it’s inactive.

Recommended fertilizers for wandering Jew plants:

• Houseplant Resource Center Liquid Fertilizer for Houseplants
• Instant Biologics Instant Plant Food (Fizzing Nutrient Tablets)
• Maxsea All-Purpose Seaweed Plant Food

Pruning 

There’s a good chance you’ll have to prune your Tradescantia zebrina regularly, because as I mentioned, this is a very quick grower. It also roots very easily, so any trimmings can be replanted! I’ll describe how to do this in the section on propagation below.

Aside from stem trimming, you can remove any dead leaves, which are bound to pop up from time to time in very dense plants like this species.

Dividing or repotting

Inch plants don’t grow by producing plantlets at their base like many other houseplants (such as spider plants ) do. Instead, inch plants spread by rooting along the stems.

This means that division is not really the way to go; keeping these plants manageable is usually done through pruning. You can shape your plant by pinching off any long, leggy stems to create a fuller appearance and control its spread.

You’ll notice that Tradescantia really doesn’t mind being a bit cramped in its planter. Still, it’s a good idea to provide your plant with some fresh soil every year or two by repotting it.

Propagating an inch plant

If you’ve never propagated a houseplant before, this is truly one of the best species to start with. It’s known for rooting extremely quickly in both water and soil, meaning it’s easy to fill endless planters to keep or give away.

All you need to propagate your Tradescantia zebrina is a pair of clean scissors. Here’s how you do it:

• Snip the ends off existing branches. An inch or two with a few leaves works best.
• Remove the leaves at the bottom so part of the stem is exposed.
• Place the cutting in a glass of water to root or plant it directly in soil. You can put cuttings back in the mother plant’s pot to give her a fuller appearance on top.
• It can take a little longer during the winter months, but the first roots should appear within a week or so. You can give soil cuttings a slight tug to verify they’ve rooted.
• Once the first signs of new foliage appear, you’ll know your propagation attempt has been a success! 
• If you propagated in water, you can leave the rooted cuttings in water almost indefinitely, although you can also pot them up in fresh soil.

Common questions about inch plant care

How do i make a wandering jew plant bushy.

By their very nature, wandering Jew plants are not bushy. Their creeping growth habit means they naturally grow leggy over time, especially in containers.

However, you can mimic a fuller appearance by strategically pinching off any long, spindly stems to shape the plant more. These stems can also be replanted near the mother plant.

As the baby plants grow, they’ll help fill in sparse areas and create the illusion of a bushy wandering Jew.

How long do wandering Jew plants live?

Wandering Jew plants have a limited lifespan of just a few years, and as a potted plant, you’ll notice your wandering Jew becoming very leggy after just two to three years.

Unlike other fast-growing plants that benefit from pruning, cutting back a wandering Jew doesn’t work well to renew its growth; it simply controls the spread.

The best way to keep your plant coming back year after year is to propagate new plants from stem cuttings, which—fortunately—is super easy with a high success rate.

Is wandering Jew perennial?

Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina) is a trailing evergreen perennial in its native habitat (USDA hardiness zones 9 through 12). Where it’s not winter hardy, wandering Jew is grown year-round as a houseplant.

Are wandering Jew plants toxic to cats and dogs?

Wandering Jew is not considered outright toxic, but it can cause some skin irritation. If your pet gets into your plant, don’t worry too much, although it can be a good idea to have a look in its mouth to make sure there’s no excessive swelling. Be sure to offer water. To prevent skin rash, it can be a good idea to wear gloves if you need to handle your wandering Jew plant. This especially applies if you have sensitive skin.

https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/110354

Racism in Taxonomy: What’s in a Name?

Chiba de Castro, W. A., Xavier, R. O., Garrido, F. H., Romero, J. H., Peres, C. K., & da Luz, R. C. (2019). Fraying around the edges: negative effects of the invasive Tradescantia zebrina Hort. ex Bosse (Commelinaceae) on tree regeneration in the Atlantic Forest under different competitive and environmental conditions. Journal of Plant Ecology, 12(4), 713-721.

Encke, F. (1964). Pflanzen fur Zimmer und Balkon; Auswahl, Pflege, Vermehrung.

I'm a plant lover, passionate road-tripper, and cookbook author whose expert advice and bestselling books have been featured in Time, Outside, HGTV, and Food & Wine. The National Parks Cookbook is my latest book. Garden Betty is where I write about modern homesteading, farm-to-table cooking, and outdoor adventuring—all that encompass a life well-lived outdoors. After all, the secret to a good life is... Read more »

We bought a full grown Bolivian Jewel mid summer last year. It was in a 14” raised pot and flowing 2 foot over the sides. It was beautiful next to our fountain outside. We live in Minnesota so we had to discard it in the late fall since we had no place to care for it in the house. Since we can’t find another like it we’d like to plant one from scratch but how. We still have the pot and riser but have no idea how to start from that. One plant, a few or just how many to make a bushy over grown plant so it looks like the one we purchased last year. Does this make sense or should we just forget it since it is already the middle of May. The greenhouse that we bought it from last summer doesn’t have any this year, just small ones in 4” pots. Thanks

If you can only grow it as an annual (and won’t be overwintering it indoors), you can plant a few smaller ones together to make them look fuller as they grow.

It seems counterproductive to talk about the problematic origin of the name wandering Jew, recommend multiple alternative names (including scientific), but then continue to call it wandering Jew in the rest of the article. If the name is anti-Semitic just set a good example and use a different name.

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Wandering Jew Plant – Ultimate Care Guide

By: Author Daniel

Posted on Last updated: September 18, 2023

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You are reading this guide to learn more about the Wandering Jew Plant and its care . I have had this plant at home for many years and write about all the growing aspects in this guide.

Wandering Jew Plant Care Takeaways

What is the wandering jew plant.

The Wandering Jew, or Tradescantia zebrina, by its scientific name (old name = Zebrina pendula) is native to Mexico. It is not to be confused with Tradescantia albiflora, which also goes by Wandering Jew and has very similar care needs. 

Tradescantia zebrina has attractive foliage, sporting exciting zebra-patterned leaves. It also flowers. But when kept as a houseplant, this rarely ever happens. It is a fast-growing and excellent groundcover, according to the University of Florida .

W andering Jew Plant Care

To keep your Wandering Jew plant thriving, ensure it receives bright, indirect sunlight. Keep it in average room temperatures of 60-75°F (16-24°C). Fertilize once a month during spring and summer. In winter, relocate the plant to a cooler area with temperatures of 54-59°F (12-15°C).

Table of Contents

Tradescantia zebrina Growing guide

Tradescantia zebrina care is pretty straightforward, but it certainly can’t hurt to glance at the most important things to consider when caring about this herbaceous perennial plant. 

So, without further ado, let’s see how you can make your Wandering Jew, aka the Inch plant, as happy as possible.

Any good potting soil will do for your Wandering Jew. For instance, this could be Miracle Gro potting soil readily available online in stores like Amazon. 

But these plants not only feel very comfortable in soil but can also be kept in hydroponics .

Sunlight is a vital aspect when it comes to the well-being of most houseplants. Some houseplants do well with moderate sunlight, while others only thrive (or flower) when a certain level of sunlight is guaranteed.

The Wandering Jew does best in bright, indirect sunlight . 

If you are unsure what that means, please look at our Light Levels article.   

The Wandering Jew, a tropical native, thrives best when the root ball is always well moisturized. Still, waterlogging should be avoided whenever possible, as this could lead to root rot .

This tropical plant does not enjoy limy water. Use soft water whenever possible. Rainwater and distilled water are very good choices. 

Temperature

People who own an Inch plant and keep it outside run the risk of exposing it to cold temperatures. This is where indoor plant owners have the upper hand.

Wandering Jews can thrive with average room temperatures of 60 to 75°F (16 to 24°C) if it doesn’t drop for long periods. Anything below 12°C for an extended period could be fatal for your Wandering Jew.

Wandering Jews prefer a humidity of around 70%

The perennial, herbaceous Wandering Jew plant is native to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia, so it should not surprise you that it likes a good deal of humidity. 

To ensure high humidity levels, regularly misting your plant is a very good idea. A hand mister filled with water does the trick. 

As for the location, you may want to keep your Wandering Jew in the bathroom , as this is usually the place in the house with the highest humidity. 

Feed your plant once a month during spring and summer. In winter, fertilizing is not necessary. 

Also, fertilization of the Wandering Jew is only necessary from the second year of cultivation or after repotting. 

Propagation

It is best propagated through stem tip cuttings. Propagating the Wandering Jew is an easy task.

Wandering Jews don’t get very tall. They might reach a height of about 14 inches (36 cm) when kept indoors. They spread to about 10 inches (25 cm).

(Re)potting

The thing with the Wandering Jew is that it grows fast , hence its nickname “Inch plant.” Because of its fast-growing pace, the plant usually gets very leggy, and leaves are often lost near the base of the plant. 

Repotting is pivotal for keeping the root system healthy regardless of the actual plant species. However, how often a houseplant needs to be repotted depends on various factors.

Some houseplants grow incredibly fast, so they need to be repotted often. Others, on the other hand, grow very slowly, so repotting is not a top priority. 

That said, repotting your Wandering Jew occasionally is a good idea. 

How long does a Wandering Jew live?

As far as the longevity of Wandering Jews goes, they often don’t get older than 2 to 3 years.  

Wandering Jew Watering

Water about once every 5-7 days in spring and summer. Keep the soil slightly humid. Do not let the Wandering Jew dry out between waterings. Use your index finger to check if the soil is dry down 1-2 inches of soil (2.5 – 5 cm).

Reduce watering to every 10-14 days in autumn and winter.

Wandering Jew Propagation

The Wandering Jew roots very easily . The plant can easily be propagated through stem tip cuttings.

When propagating your Wandering Jew, make sure that your plant is in a healthy condition. 

Please follow our step-to-step guide to propagate your Wandering Jew through stem tip cuttings.

Propagation through stem tip cuttings

• Identify the plant that you want to replicate. It should have healthy growth and plenty of stems. 
• Make clean cuts on sections that are three to six inches in length . 
• Use a sharp knife and carefully cut the leaves on the stem’s bottom half.
• If you want, you can dip the exposed end of the stem in a rooting hormone . This will speed up the rooting process. However , it is unnecessary . 
• Place your stem tip cuttings into a pot with fresh soil after thoroughly watering the potting mixture. 
• Use a clear plastic bag to hold in moisture, taking it off to water weekly . 
• Keep your eyes on the plant for new growth . You should start to see roots in about two to three weeks . Once this happens, transfer the plant babies to a larger pot. 

Note: Instead of rooting your stem tip cuttings directly in soil, you could also root them in water .

Wandering Jew Pest Control

Wandering Jews are prone to aphids and spider mites attacks. So, you will need to look out for these two little pests. 

Some of these are known to cause defoliation, while others can kill the plant altogether. Depending on the severity of the infestation, you may need to use chemicals or insecticides .

Aphids on my Inch Plant

The Wandering Jew is not particularly susceptible to plant diseases or pests. Yet, you might have to deal with an aphid attack at some point. These parasites pierce the leaves of their host plant and suck their sap.

Like scale insects, they excrete sticky honeydew, by which you can immediately recognize the infestation.

Aphids can multiply explosively, especially in warm , dry environments.

As a preventive measure, ensure regular watering and occasional misting of your Wandering Jew.

The best way to combat aphids is to control them mechanically by rinsing them off the plant with water . Isolate the plant from the rest of the collection.

Pest Prevention

To prevent the Wandering Jew from pest infestations, plucking dried leaves regularly makes sense as well as using neem oil. The dried leaves lying on the substrate must be removed. Otherwise, there is a risk of rotting or infestation by parasites and fungi .

Wandering Jew Problems

Brown leaf tips.

Brown leaf tips is a very common problem with a wide variety of houseplant. Depending on the species, the causes for this problem can be very different, though. 

So what causes leaves to turn brown with Wandering Jews?

My Wandering Jew has only green leaves (not enough variegation)

If you do own a variegated Wandering Jew but only see a great amount of non-variegated leaves, chances are that your plant does not get enough sunlight . 

To solve the problem, allow your Wandering Jew some bright, indirect sunlight by placing it in a sunnier location. 

Fading leaves

If your inch plant’s foliage is suddenly losing color and sports fading leaves, this is another sign that it does not get enough sunlight . 

Dropping leaves

Dropping leaves is another very common problem many plant parents must deal with regularly . If your Wandering Jew drops leaves, this is usually due to too low or too high temperatures . 

In summer , ensure your Wandering Jew is exposed to average room temperatures.

In winter , it should be kept in a cooler environment.

Is Wandering Jew care difficult?

Wandering Jews are considered low-maintenance plants and are perfectly suitable for beginners. 

They do well at average room temperatures, don’t demand a very high level of humidity (which is sometimes difficult to achieve in a home environment), and it is very easy to propagate them through stem tip cuttings. 

Which plant species are commonly referred to as “Wandering Jew”?

Tradescantia zebrina as well as Tradescantia albiflora. 

What is the difference between Tradescantia zebrina and Zebrina pendula?

There is no difference between Tradescantia zebrina and Zebrina pendula. Zebrina pendula is just the old name for Tradescantia zebrina. 

Does my Wandering Jew flower at all?

Wandering Jews are indeed flowering plants. However, when kept indoors, they very rarely flower. 

How long can you keep a Wandering Jew?

If you don’t propagate your Wandering Jew, you can keep it for about three years. After that period, the quality of your Wandering Jew will most likely decrease. If you regularly propagate your leafy friend through stem tip cuttings, you can keep it indefinitely.

Any display tips for Wandering Jews?

Wandering Jews look great in hanging planters!

Is the Wandering Jew toxic to cats?

The Wandering Jew plant is toxic to cats. Therefore, you have to keep your cat away from this plant. 

Is the Wandering Jew toxic to dogs?

Yes, the Wandering Jew plant is toxic to dogs. Therefore, you must ensure your dog does not come in contact with this plant. 

What are the health benefits of Tradescantia zebrina, if any?

Not only is The Wandering Jew a beautiful houseplant famous for its striking foliage, but it also presents several health benefits for humans. It is especially known for its antioxidant and antibacterial activity, and it is widely used in Traditional Medicine in several countries. Tradescantia zebrina is also believed to be a valuable source for treating kidney diseases.

The Last Zebrina

The Wandering Jew is a great houseplant that looks stunning in hanging planters. Its care is easy apart from its humidity-loving nature.

Daniel has been a plant enthusiast for over 20 years. He owns hundreds of houseplants and prepares for the chili growing seasons yearly with great anticipation. His favorite plants are plant species in the Araceae family, such as Monstera, Philodendron, and Anthurium. He also loves gardening and is growing hot peppers, tomatoes, and many more vegetables.

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Wandering Jew Plants Guide: How to Grow & Care for “Tradescantia zebrina”

It might surprise you to learn that “the wandering Jew” isn’t a single plant, its name used to describe a collection of plants in the Tradescantia genus.

Many countries around the world view the wandering Jew as an invasive species. Therefore, you won’t find many of them as regular additions to gardens . However, the vine makes for an excellent indoor plant .

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

Wandering jew plant varieties.

The wandering Jew refers to three different plants in the Tradescantia genus. The three varieties are the zebrina, fluminensis, and the pallida.

Tradescantia Zebrina

The zebrina is the most common of the three species, and it features dark-green foliage that contrasts against the brilliant-white three-petal flowers the plant produces.

As you can imagine, the plant also gets part of its name from the zebra-like foliage. The center of the leaf id has a creamy-white color, and the outer trimming of the leaves has a silver lining.

Tradescantia Fluminensis

This wandering Jew species features white flowers, and it’s a trendy indoor plant around the world. The species originates from the southeastern region of Brazil. It’s an evergreen perennial plant that flowers all-year-round and lasts for many years if the owner takes care of it correctly.

The oval-shaped foliage of the Fluminensis is green in color and has a glossy look. The leaves attach to fleshy stems, and the stem nodes quickly put roots down into the soil, allowing for the rapid spread and growth of the plant in ideal growing conditions.

When the plant flowers , it produces a set of flowers with three white petals. The flowers don’t bear any seeds, and they might also emerge in clusters. There are various sub-species of this plant as well, and some types, such as variegate, feature different leaf colors, such as yellow or cream streaks in the leaves.

The plant does best in USDA zones 9 to 12, as it loves the additional humidity in these regions as well. The wandering Jew doesn’t do well in colder climates, so stick to planting in the southern states.

The wandering Jew also prefers full sunlight during the day, and you’ll need to feed it a reasonable amount of water throughout the week. The plant doesn’t enjoy being dry for long periods.

Tradescantia Pallida

This variety originates in Mexico, and it’s the most attractive of the three Tradescantia genus. This wandering Jew produces long, pointy leaves that can reach lengths of 7-inches. The leaf will eventually turn a purple color, but the tips might remain red or green during the color transition.

There are visible segmentations on the stem of this wandering Jew, and it’s for this reason that many countries classify this plant as invasive.

The segments break easily, but they root readily, evolving into two plants with little care. Fortunately, for fans of the plant, it also makes it easy to grow the plants for cuttings as well.

Tradescantia pallida don’t like the cold, and it will die back in colder environments in the Northern states, especially if it grows outside. This wandering Jew produces small flowers that bloom in colors of pink, lavender, and white. The flowers feature three petals, and while they aren’t show-stopping, then do add a beautiful aesthetic to the plant.

• shipped in inproved box to save the plant

• Purple Wandering Jew Live Plant Cuttings - (9) Cuttings - Tradescantia Zebrina Live Plant for Growing Indoor - No Root

Last update on 2024-06-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Natural Air Cleaners

One of the reasons why the wandering Jew is such a popular house plant is its natural air-cleaning properties. The wandering Jew is an excellent “air scrubber,” and it removes bacteria and VOCs from the air inside your home, exchanging it for fresh air that enhances your home.

Some research also shows that the wandering Jew can assist in soil remediation, as well. The plant can remove heavy metals from the soil, helping restore the root health of other plants in the same flowerbed or pot.

Caring for Your Wandering Jew Plant

All varieties of the wandering Jew are easy to care for, provided that you grow them in the right climate and conditions. As long as the plant receives regular watering and pruning, it will thrive, and you’ll also manage to control the growth as well.

If you plant in a sunny spot in your home, then you can expect your tradescantia to last for many seasons. It’s also important to note that the plant might not flower it in its first season. However, by the third year, you should see plenty of flowers that emerge in the summer months.

As mentioned, the wandering Jew prefers sunny planting locations. The plant prefers later afternoon sun to morning sun, but it does well in any sunny area around the home. The more light you give the plant, the more flowers it produces in the flowering season.

If your wandering Jew does not get sufficient sunlight, you’ll notice that the color of the leaves starts to fade. Move the plant to a sunny spot, and it should recover in less than a week.

The wandering Jew enjoys a balanced moisture level in its soil . Don’t let the earth get too dry, as it might cause burning in the tips of the leaves. Likewise, the wandering Jew does not enjoy excessively wet soil either. The plant is susceptible to forming root rot if you “keep its feet wet.”

To check if it’s time to water your wandering Jew, push your finger about 1-inch into the soil. If it feels dry, then give your plant some water.

You must ensure you use a rich, loamy soil that drains well when planting your wandering Jew. When planting in a pot, make sure you add a layer of gravel at the bottom of the pot to enhance drainage. Add perlite to the soil to assist with drainage as well.

You can get away with using a standard potting mix when planting indoors , and other soil enhancements we recommend you add are the following.

• Coarse sand and perlite for drainage
• Humus or peat
• A light dusting of lime
• A few handfuls of rich organic compost

You want the soil to retain water but still allow optimal drainage.

During the growing season, fertilize your wandering Jew plant using a liquid-based fertilizer product. Make sure that you dilute the fertilizer to 50-percent strength.

Strong concentrations can result in burning in the tips of the leaves of the plant. You can also add a granular slow-release fertilizer to the soil once a year at the start of spring.

The wandering Jew grows quickly, and it might take over its pot in one or two seasons, depending on the size of the container. Therefore, you’ll need to pull up the plant and divide it from year-to-year, depending on its growth rate.

If you choose to re-pot your plant, make sure you use a pot that’s at least 50-percent larger than the old one. Line the pot with potting soil and a few handfuls of rich organic compost. Dig around the edges of the existing container to loosen the root ball. After loosening, pull the base of the plant to release it from the pot.

Move the plant to its new pot, and then fill with potting mix to cover the roots — Pat down the soil, and then water lightly.

Wandering Jew plants require regular pruning . The plant grows quickly, and if you don’t prune, then it can overtake the pot fast. Pruning also helps the stem, from getting “leggy,” meaning that the plant starts to look bare at the base. Pruning keeps the plant healthy and growing at an optimal rate.

All; you need to do is prune back any stems and pinch the stem tips. The wandering Jew will then send out two new shoots from the pinched top, helping your plant spread out into a bush-like appearance.

Propagation

The wandering Jew is easy to propagate . This plant grows quickly in a variety of conditions, which is one of the reasons why most countries list it as invasive. You can propagate your cuttings after your pruning session, without much effort.

Remove all of the leaves but the top set after pruning the stem. Place the cutting in another smaller pot with moist potting soil . Leave the container in the sun, and you should find that the cutting roots in a month.

Being an indoor plant , the wandering Jew does not get much attention from pests. However, spider mites can be a problem for your plant if you don’t take care of it and watch for the presence of pests.

Spider mites are tiny spider-like bugs that form a web around the inside of the leaves of the plant. If left unmanaged and untreated, they might start to cause yellow spots in the foliage. The wandering Jew might also fail to flower in the summer months as well.

Over-watering your wandering Jew plant can result in the onset of diseases like root rot. Ensure that you have a well-draining soil mix before planting your wandering Jew. Provided that you do everything you can to ensure your soil drains well, you should never have a problem with root rot in your wandering Jew plant.

Wandering Jew Plants FAQS

What is the best way to grow a wandering jew plant.

The best way to grow a Wandering Jew plant involves placing it in a location that gets plenty of sunlight, preferably late afternoon sun. You should use well-draining, loamy soil to plant it, and ensure a balanced moisture level by watering it regularly but not excessively. The plant also appreciates humidity and occasional fertilizing with a liquid-based fertilizer diluted to 50% strength during the growing season. Pruning should be done regularly to manage its growth.

Is Wandering Jew easy to grow?

A: Yes, Wandering Jew plants are generally easy to grow. They adapt well to various conditions and are fast-growing. They can be propagated easily from cuttings and require minimal maintenance beyond regular watering, pruning, and an occasional application of fertilizer. However, they do not tolerate cold climates very well.

Does wandering Jew like full sun or shade?

Wandering Jew plants prefer locations with full sunlight. They can tolerate some shade but too much shade can cause the color of the leaves to fade. More sunlight exposure generally leads to more flowers during the flowering season.

How often do you water Wandering Jew?

Wandering Jew plants should be watered regularly to maintain a balanced moisture level in the soil. However, the soil should not be allowed to become too dry or too wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot. A good way to check if it’s time to water is to push your finger about 1-inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water the plant.

Is Tradescantia Zebrina easy to grow?

Yes, Tradescantia Zebrina, a variety of Wandering Jew, is easy to grow. It requires similar care to other Wandering Jew varieties and is known for its adaptability and quick growth.

Does Tradescantia Zebrina need full sun?

Tradescantia Zebrina does best in a location with full sunlight. While it can tolerate some shade, insufficient sunlight can cause the leaves to lose their vibrant color. Like other Wandering Jew plants, the more light it gets, the more flowers it produces during its flowering season.

Hollie is a life-long gardener, having started helping her Dad work on their yard when she was just 5. Since then she has gone on to develop a passion for growing vegetables & fruit in her garden. She has an affinity with nature and loves to share her knowledge gained over a lifetime with readers online. Hollie has written for a number of publications and is now the resident garden blogger here at GardenBeast. Contact her at [email protected] or follow on twitter https://twitter.com/greenholliec

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Rhaphidophora tetrasperma guide: how to grow & care for “mini monstera”, corn plant guide: how to grow & care for “dracaena fragrans”.

under the photo “easy to propagate”, that is not a wandering jew-its a peperomia “rosso!”

My wandering jew plants leafs are getting dried. Why is that?

It’s not getting enough humidity

Could you elaborate on “rich organic compost”? What should it be made of, exactly? Can I use compost accelerator in the soil mix?

Worm castings are great, or worm tea, egg shell tea is another.

What month does the jew break ground to start growing?

All depends on your specific areas weather pattern and seasons.

Do NOT BUY ANY OF THIS SPECIES if you have a dog because dogs are very allergic to these plants & come out in bad rashes if they wander through them!

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Tradescantia Care (Spiderwort Wandering Jew Plant)

By: Author Mod and Mint - Deborah Green

Posted on Last updated: 17 May 2024

Foliage Plants » Tradescantia Care

Tradescantia Spiderwort is an easy-to-care-for vining house plant that grows vibrant leaves and dainty, spider-like flowers, making it a charming addition to your indoor garden.

For optimal growth, place your Tradescantia in bright, indirect light, plant in a well-draining potting soil, keep it consistently moist but not soggy, and maintain high humidity.

Tradescantia Plants

Scientific name: Tradescantia. Common names: Wandering Jew, Wandering Dude, Spiderwort, Inch plant.

Tradescantia plants are native to the Americas, primarily found in various regions of North and South America.

They like bright, indirect light, moist soil, and high humidity. If you can give your plant the right care, it might start flowering and grow small pink or purple flowers that last just one day.

Want to grow your own Tradescantia plant? Find it for sale on Amazon!

New to indoor plants? Start with our beginner’s guide to house plant care.

Tradescantia Varieties

There are about 70 different varieties, the most common being the Tradescantia Zebrina , with green leaves and silver stripes, and the purple spiderwort, the Zebrina burgundy .

There are pink and lilac variegated types like the Tradescantia fluminensis tricolor , Tradescantia bubblegum , and Tradescantia Nanouk .

Tradescantia Wandering Jew Name

Although there are multiple common names for the tradescantia plant, for a long time the most commonly used name was the Wandering Jew plant. It is still being used by a portion of people but for a growing group of people, this name raises a few eyebrows.

Why is the Tradescantia commonly called a Wandering Jew? There are a few different stories that go around.

Some say that it got the common name Wandering Jew, because of the wandering way it grows. It spreads quickly, with sections of stem all growing in slightly varying directions, wandering about.

Others say it was because propagated cuttings of the plant were passed on to friends and family like wanderers traveling the world.

But this just explains the Wandering part. The Tradescantia could have just been called the Wandering Plant. Why the Jew part?

I wasn’t there when the name was first used, but the explanation most often heard is that of an old Christian myth about a Jew who was said to have had a bad attitude right before the crucifixion, mocking Jesus. It is said that Jesus responded by condemning him to wander the earth until the second coming.

In recent years the name Wandering Jew is used less frequently. People use the alternative Wandering Dude, or Spiderwort. The official name Tradescantia is also being used more and more.

Light Requirements

Tradescantia Spiderwort plants grow best in bright, indirect light. Provide your plant with enough light to keep its color and maybe even flower.

The ideal location is an east or west-facing window. This gives your plant enough light in the morning or late afternoon, and plenty of bright indirect light the rest of the day.

Avoid too much direct sunlight. This can scorch the delicate leaves, leaving dry brown spots that won’t heal. Move your plant away from the window, or filter the light with a sheer curtain.    

If the light is too dim, growth will slow down, leaves stay smaller and maybe lose variegation (if they had any). Vines may also grow leggy with more space between the leaves reaching for the light. Pinch off the leggy stems and move your plant somewhere with more light.

Consider getting a plant grow light if your home doesn’t receive enough natural light.   

Indoors, water your plant regularly to keep the soil slightly moist. The soil should feel like a wrung-out sponge.    

Check the soil frequently. When the soil feels moist, wait for one to two days and check again. If the soil is dry, go ahead and water generously, to saturate the soil. Allow any excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot. Then allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again. 

Overwatering is the most common problem. To prevent overwatering, don’t water your plant too often. If you are uncertain, you can use a moisture meter to help you with when to water.  

Overwatering can lead to yellow leaves and root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to droop, wilt, turn brown, and dry out. Leaves should feel firm, not limp. 

Read more: The right way to water your indoor plants .

High Humidity

Tradescantiaplants like warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity. Brown, crispy leaf tips are often a sign that your plant needs more humidity, a common problem for these plants.  

The best way to raise the humidity is to place a small humidifier near your plant. For even more humidity, grow your tradescantia in a closed terrarium . 

Soil and Repotting

Repot every two to three years in spring when the plant is actively growing. The soil will have lost its nutrients and will need to be replaced with fresh well-draining potting soil.  

Transplant in a pot one size up if the plant has outgrown its original pot. Roots will have filled the pot or grow from the bottom of the pot. 

Proper drainage is essential for Tradescantia plants, as they are susceptible to root rot if the soil stays consistently soggy. Make sure the new pot has drainage holes and that excess water can escape. If it doesn’t, use the pot as an outer cache pot and place a planter with drainage inside it. 

Read more: Step-by-step guide on how to repot your house plants.  

Pruning your indoor Tradescantia should be part of the regular care routine. It helps maintain the shape, encourages bushier growth, and prevents leggy or overcrowded growth.

Pinch back the tips of the stems. Simply use your fingers or pruners to snip off the tips of the stems just above a leaf node (the area where leaves are attached). This prompts the plant to produce new side shoots.

The best time to prune is during the active growing season in spring through summer or right after it has bloomed. 

Don’t prune too excessively at once, as plants recover better from gradual and moderate pruning. 

Tradescantia Propagation

The easiest way to propagate a Tradescantia is by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or soil.   

Take cuttings with a few leaves and remove the leaves from the lower part of the cuttings.  

• To water propagate the cuttings , place them in water and in bright, indirect light. Change the water regularly and transplant to soil when roots have grown to about 1 – 2 inches.  
• To propagate in soil, plant the cuttings in a small pot with well-draining soil. Keep in bright, indirect light. Mist or water very sparingly until you see new growth.  

To speed up the propagation process, you can apply a rooting hormone powder to the cutting before planting it. This powder stimulates the formation of roots and results in stronger, better-rooted plants.

Read more: 6 ways to propagate your favorite house plants.  

Variegated Tradescantia Care

Variegated variations like the Tradescantia Zebrina, Tricolor, or Nanouk can lose their pink or lilac variegation and turn solid green for different reasons.

Pink coloration often fades when the plant grows in insufficient light. It can also happen when it is too hot or too cold for the plant to grow its variegated leaves.

When the plant does not have the right conditions, it will revert to growing solid green leaves because it is trying to save its energy. Growing those beautiful variegated patterns costs a lot of energy it just doesn’t have.

When the variegated leaves start turning a solid green, get pruning! Green leaves grow faster than variegated ones, so if you do not prune them, they will take over your entire plant. When all the solid green leaves are pruned, move your plant to a spot where it gets more light.

Related reading: How to fix common Tradescantia care problems .

Are Tradescantia Plants Toxic to Cats?

According to the ASPCA , the Tradescantia is considered mildly poisonous when ingested. It may cause skin irritations.

Although it is uncommon for pets to get seriously hurt from eating plants, keep this one out of reach of children and pets. 

Read more: Indoor plants safe for cats.

Saturday 23rd of July 2022

It would help to know if they prefer to be kept in a small pot, or need a roomy pot with 50%+ spare soil for growth.

Sunday 13th of February 2022

Hi, thanks for your article. It’s helped me with caring for my tradescantia tricolour. Recently I’ve noticed the pink/cream leaves and the whites on the variegated leaves have started turning yellow-green and I’m not sure why. I’m in Australia, it’s currently summer here and I’ve left my plant next to a west facing window, bright and indirect sunlight. I water only when soil is a bit drier.

I’ve had this plant for a good 2-3 months now and it used to have more pink leaves but not as much now 😢My guess is perhaps the tap water im using to water my plants. I’ve also noticed the whites on my spider plant leaves are also getting a yellow hue. Maybe they are related. Any ideas?

Tuesday 1st of February 2022

We call our tradescantia, wandering dude!

Tuesday 4th of January 2022

I love the Tradescantias have several. I love your article. Many things I didn’t know. I have the tri color and the multi color Discolor. I know they say too remove the green stems. But I actually think it makes the plant what it is. Green is still beautiful with the pinks. Just wondering if you don’t remove the green will it take over and you won’t get any more pink? Or can I just leave it alone and love it as it is?

Mod and Mint

Wednesday 9th of February 2022

Hi Kimberly, happy my article was helpful to you! How are your tradescantias doing now? Did you remove the green parts, or did you decide to leave them? Would love to hear how that went. My experience is that the green leaves grow faster and thus overtaking the plant and pushing out the pink growth over time. That's why I advise removing at least most part of the green growth. You could leave a few, I agree that all the different colors make these plants extra pretty. Just keep a close eye on it so the green doesn't completely take over the plant. If the pink is gone, it usually doesn't return. Unfortunately... Good luck!

Monday 18th of October 2021

I propagated some cutting from my lavender tradescantia. The mother plant has large leaves, however the propagated cuttings are growing much smaller leaves. Why is that?