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Unconditional Satisfaction GuaranteeNo Shipping Fees Above 302 Months to Decide. Returns Simplified.Tradescantia zebrina, commonly known as the Wandering Jew, Inch Plant, or Zebra Plant, is a striking trailing species from the Commelinaceae family. Native to Mexico and Central America, it is prized for its vividly coloured foliage and vigorous growth.
The plants elongated, lance-shaped leaves are its most attractive feature. Each leaf has a green to deep purple base with bold silvery stripes running lengthwise, while the undersides are a rich magenta. This striking combination gives the foliage a metallic, iridescent sheen, especially under bright light.
Its trailing habit makes it perfect for hanging baskets, tall planters, or shelves, where the cascading vines create a waterfall of colour. Easy to grow and quick to establish, Tradescantia zebrina is equally suited to beginner gardeners and experienced collectors looking for a bold statement plant.
Thrives in bright, indirect light, which enhances the vivid striping and purple tones. Tolerates medium light but may become leggy and lose colour in low-light conditions. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Keep the soil lightly moist during the growing season, watering when the top 23 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water, as this may cause root rot. In winter, reduce watering slightly.
Temperature: Ideal range is 1626C. Protect from draughts and avoid prolonged exposure below 12C.
Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity. In dry homes, mist occasionally or group with other plants to prevent crispy leaf edges.
Use a free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost with added perlite for aeration. Repot annually or every 2 years in spring to refresh the soil.
Feed every 24 weeks in spring and summer with a diluted balanced liquid fertiliser. Stop feeding in winter.
Pinch back stems regularly to maintain a bushy, compact shape and encourage fresh growth. Older or leggy stems can be cut back and propagated easily in water or soil.
A fast-growing trailing plant, capable of producing vines up to 12 metres indoors. With proper pruning, it remains dense and colourful.
Leggy growth: Caused by insufficient light.
Leaf fade: Loss of colour in low light.
Yellowing leaves: Often due to overwatering.
Pests: May attract spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs.
Tradescantia zebrina has long been valued as a decorative plant, both for its ornamental foliage and ease of care. Its bold striping and trailing vines bring instant vibrancy to interiors. It is also considered a hardy and forgiving plant, making it perfect for beginners.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates medium
Water: Lightly moist; reduce in winter
Temperature: 1626C; avoid below 12C
Humidity: Moderate to high; mist occasionally
Soil: Free-draining peat-free compost
Feed: Every 24 weeks in spring/summer
Growth: Vigorous trailing vine; striped green, silver, and purple leaves with magenta undersides
