Quadricolor Inch Plant (Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor')

Quadricolor Inch Plant

Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor'

Its variegated leaves paint a living watercolor of pink, silver, and green. Trailing herbaceous perennial; common name: Inch Plant, Wandering Jew.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light preserves vibrant variegation; avoid direct midday sun which can scorch leaf margins; tolerates low light but may lose pink coloration
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in dense potting mixes
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Temperature Thrives at 18–24°C; protect from temperatures below 10°C to prevent leaf browning and stem damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Ovate leaves with longitudinal silver stripes, green base, and bright pink margins; fuzzy pale undersides
  • Stem: Succulent, trailing stems that root easily at leaf nodes
  • Flower: Small, three-petaled white or pale purple blooms in tight terminal clusters
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; mist leaves occasionally to boost humidity in dry indoor conditions

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations and odor
Pruning
  • Pinch back stem tips every 4–6 weeks to encourage bushier, compact growth
  • Remove yellow or damaged leaves at the base to improve air circulation
  • Trim overgrown trailing stems in spring to refresh the plant’s shape and promote new growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion causes oral pain, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing

Humans: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes mild oral and throat irritation; prolonged contact may trigger minor skin rash

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental hanging basket or groundcover plant; has mild air-purifying properties