Wandering Jew

Description

The Wandering Jew plant refers to several species of trailing plants in the Tradescantia genus, known for their colorful foliage and easy care. It’s a popular houseplant and ground cover in warmer climates.

🌿 Wandering Jew Plant Description

Scientific name: Tradescantia zebrina (most common), also includes T. fluminensis, T. pallida
Family: Commelinaceae (spiderwort family)
Common names: Wandering Jew, Inch Plant, Spiderwort

🔍 Key Characteristics

Growth Habit:

• Fast-growing, trailing or spreading plant.

• Commonly used in hanging baskets, as a ground cover, or as an indoor trailing plant.

• Stems root easily at nodes when they contact soil.

Leaves:

• Variegated foliage is the main attraction.

• T. zebrina has purple and green striped leaves with silver accents.

• T. pallida (Purple Heart) has solid deep purple leaves.

• T. fluminensis has solid green, shiny leaves, sometimes with white variegation.

Flowers:

• Small and usually pink, purple, or white.

• Not the main ornamental feature—flowers are short-lived.

🌱 Growing Conditions

• Light: Bright, indirect light is best. Direct sun intensifies color but too much can scorch leaves.

• Soil: Well-draining potting mix.

• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Let the top inch dry out between waterings.

• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity.

• Temperature: Thrives in 60–80°F (15–27°C). Not frost-tolerant.

✂️ Care Tips

• Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth.

• Prune regularly to remove leggy or dying stems.

• Can be propagated easily from stem cuttings in water or soil.

• Keep an eye out for root rot if overwatered, and spider mites or aphids indoors.