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Description
Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii, also known as Wandering Jew or Inch Plant, is a popular trailing houseplant known for its colorful foliage. Native to Mexico, it belongs to the Commelinaceae family and is a perennial herbaceous plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
Appearance
Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii has elongated leaves that are green on the top and purple on the bottom, with silver stripes in between. The leaves are around 6 inches long and 2 inches wide, and they grow on trailing stems that can reach up to 3 feet long. The plant also produces small pink or purple flowers, but they are not the main attraction.
Care Guide
Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts. Here’s a breakdown of its care requirements:
Water
Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Make sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. In the winter months, reduce watering frequency.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing in the winter months.
Soil
Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is a good choice.
Sunlight
The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause the colors to fade.
Hardiness Zones
Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, but it can also be grown as a houseplant in other zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii is native to Mexico and prefers a warm, humid environment. It grows naturally in shady areas near streams and in forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9 to 11, but it is more commonly grown as a houseplant.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii?
A: Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii need a lot of water?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii?
A: Stem cuttings can be rooted in water or soil. Make sure the cutting has at least two leaves and a node.
Related Plants
- Tradescantia Fluminensis
- Tradescantia Pallida
- Tradescantia Spathacea
References
- “Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276975.
- “Tradescantia Zebrina Purpusii Care.” Joy Us Garden, 1 June 2021, www.joyusgarden.com/tradescantia-zebrina-care/.
- “Wandering Jew Plant Care Guide.” The Spruce, 22 Apr. 2021, www.thespruce.com/wandering-jew-plant-care-1902779.
