Tradescantia (Wandering Jew, Inch Plant)

The Tradescantia is a trailing, perennial plant with striking foliage and small, three-petaled pink or violet-blue flowers. It is highly prized for its attractive appearance and easy care, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced plant owners.

Care Requirements

  • Light:
    Prefers bright, indirect light. While it will tolerate low light conditions, growth may slow down under these circumstances.

  • Watering:
    Keep the soil slightly moist, ensuring it doesn’t dry out completely. Reduce watering in the winter months when the plant’s growth slows down.

  • Soil:
    Thrives in a well-draining potting mix with added perlite and sand to enhance drainage.

  • Temperature:
    Ideal temperature range is 60–80°F (15–27°C). Tradescantia enjoys moderate humidity but can adapt to typical indoor humidity levels.

  • Fertilizer:
    Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) to support healthy growth.

Care Tips

  • Rotate the plant occasionally for even light exposure and to encourage balanced growth.

  • Trim back leggy growth regularly to maintain a tidy shape and encourage fuller foliage.

Common Problems

  • Yellowing leaves: May be a result of overwatering or insufficient drainage. Ensure the pot has good drainage and adjust watering schedules.

  • Leggy growth: A sign of insufficient light. Move to a brighter location or increase light exposure.

Additional Information

  • Toxicity:
    Considered toxic to pets, though it poses no significant toxicity to humans. Keep out of reach of pets.

  • Pest Resistance:
    Tradescantia is generally resilient but can experience pest infestations, particularly mealybugs or spider mites. Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

  • Air Purification:
    Known for its ability to help purify indoor air by removing toxins, it also contributes to improving indoor air quality and increasing humidity.