Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina)

Wandering Jew

Tradescantia zebrina

Striped foliage trails like living ribbon, soft and vibrant. Trailing perennial foliage plant; common names: Wandering Jew, Inch Plant.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade, avoid harsh midday direct sun that can scorch leaf edges
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal growth
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Temperature Thrives at 18–24℃; protect from temperatures below 10℃ to prevent leaf browning and stunted growth
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval, succulent leaves with silver stripes along midrib, purple undersides
  • Flower: Small, white or pale pink three-petaled blooms in terminal clusters
  • Stem: Slender, trailing stems that root at nodes when in contact with soil
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; mist foliage occasionally to boost humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel tea:Soak 1 chopped, unpeeled banana peel in 1 L of water for 48 hours; strain thoroughly and use to water plants to avoid attracting pests or causing odor buildup
Pruning
  • Pinch back stem tips regularly to encourage bushier, compact growth and prevent legginess
  • Remove yellow, damaged, or diseased leaves promptly to maintain plant health and airflow
  • Trim overgrown trailing stems in early spring to control plant size and encourage new growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; may cause oral pain, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing

Humans: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes mild oral and throat irritation; rare skin irritation in sensitive individuals

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Associated with resilience due to easy propagation; considered an invasive groundcover in some warm outdoor regions

Usage: Indoor hanging basket ornamental foliage; outdoor low-growing groundcover in frost-free areas