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Description
Tradescantia Zanonia, also known as Wandering Jew Zanonia, is a perennial plant native to South America. It belongs to the Commelinaceae family and is a popular houseplant due to its ease of care and attractive appearance. The plant has long stems that can grow up to 2 feet in length, and the leaves are green and lance-shaped with a purple underside. The flowers are small and pinkish-purple in color and bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
Appearance
Tradescantia Zanonia is a beautiful plant with long, trailing stems that can grow up to 2 feet in length. The leaves are green and lance-shaped, and the underside is purple, making for a striking contrast. The flowers are small and pinkish-purple in color and bloom in the summer. The plant can grow up to 12 inches in height and 24 inches in width.
Care Guide
Tradescantia Zanonia is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal attention. Here are some tips for caring for your plant:- Water: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Do not overwater as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate low light conditions.- Hardiness Zones: Tradescantia Zanonia is hardy in zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tradescantia Zanonia is generally free of pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, keep the plant clean and avoid overwatering. If pest problems arise, use a suitable insecticide to control the infestation.
Habitat
Tradescantia Zanonia is native to South America and can be found growing in tropical and subtropical regions. It grows best in warm and humid conditions and prefers well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tradescantia Zanonia be grown outdoors?
A: Tradescantia Zanonia is hardy in zones 9 to 11 and can be grown outdoors in these regions.
Q: How often should I water my Tradescantia Zanonia?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry, usually once a week.
Q: What is the best temperature range for Tradescantia Zanonia?
A: The plant prefers temperatures between 60°F and 85°F.
Q: Can I propagate my Tradescantia Zanonia?
A: Yes, Tradescantia Zanonia can be easily propagated using stem cuttings.
Related Plants
– Tradescantia Albiflora- Tradescantia Fluminensis- Tradescantia Pallida- Tradescantia Spathacea
References
– “Tradescantia Zanonia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b555.- “Tradescantia Zanonia.” The Spruce, 17 May 2021, www.thespruce.com/tradescantia-plant-profile-4767644.
