Description
Tradescantia zebrina is a vibrant and versatile trailing plant known for its striking foliage. Its elongated, lance-shaped leaves feature bold purple undersides and shimmering silver and green stripes on top. Native to Mexico and Central America, this plant is highly adaptable and grows quickly in the right conditions. It can be used as a trailing houseplant, a fast-spreading ground cover in warm climates, or even as an accent in mixed planters.
Commonly Known As:
Wandering Jew, Inch Plant, Silver Inch Plant, Purple Wandering Jew
Growth Habit:
- Trailing or sprawling plant that can grow up to 2–3 feet in length.
- Forms dense, cascading foliage, perfect for hanging baskets and containers.
- Can be pruned regularly to encourage fuller growth.
Watering Instructions:
- Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Keep soil slightly moist but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Soil Needs:
- Prefers well-draining, rich potting soil.
- Can tolerate a range of soil types as long as they drain well.
Sun Requirements:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun.
- In lower light, variegation may fade, and growth may become leggy.
Indoor or Outdoor Tips:
- Indoor: Best suited for hanging planters or shelves where its trailing vines can cascade beautifully.
- Outdoor: Can be used as ground cover in USDA zones 9–12 but must be protected from frost.
Perennial or Annual:
- Perennial in warm climates, but often grown as an annual in cooler areas.
Additional Tips:
- Pinch back stems to promote bushier growth.
- Easy to propagate from stem cuttings placed in water or soil.
- Can become invasive outdoors if not controlled.
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