Tradescantia zebrina
Tradescantia zebrina
Also called Inch Plant or Wandering Dude: a fast trailer with silver-and-green striped leaves and deep purple undersides. Bright filtered light keeps the colors sharp; pinch often for a fuller hanging planter.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Moderate
Pet Warning
The sap of Tradescantia zebrina can cause skin irritation in humans and pets. If ingested, it may cause digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea in cats and dogs.
Care Notes
Light
Bright, filtered light keeps purple and silver strong. Low light stretches stems and fades variegation. Avoid harsh afternoon sun that scorches leaves.
Water
Water when the top inch feels dry. Keep the mix lightly moist without waterlogging. Cut back in winter. Use a pot with drainage holes.
Soil
A well-draining mix with perlite or peat moss works well. Pinchings root easily in water or moist soil for a denser pot.
Humidity & Temperature
Keep temperatures around 60-80°F. Average home humidity is fine; higher humidity helps. Brown tips often mean dry air.
Common Issues
Leggy growth needs more light and regular pinching. Watch for spider mites and aphids. Soft yellow leaves usually mean overwatering.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Liquid balanced fertilizer
Soil
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or peat moss
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
Trailing stems up to 3-6 feet
Growth Rate
Fast
Propagation
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil
Common Varieties
Burgundy
Pointed lance-shaped leaves in deep purple with two silver stripes and burgundy undersides.
Silver Plus
Pointed lance-shaped leaves with broad silver bands, thin dark-green margins, and a purple underside.
Quadricolor
Pointed lance-shaped leaves striped in silver, green, cream, and pink over a deep purple underside.
Purpusii
Solid deep burgundy to bronze-purple lanceolate leaves without the usual silver stripes.