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Description
Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor, also known as Wandering Jew, is a popular indoor plant native to Mexico. It belongs to the Commelinaceae family and is a herbaceous perennial that is often grown as an annual. The plant is characterized by its trailing stems that can grow up to 30 inches long and its striking foliage that features bands of green, silver, pink, and purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
| Species | T. Zebrina Quadricolor |
Appearance
Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor is a highly ornamental plant that can add a pop of color to any room. Its leaves are ovate in shape, about 2-3 inches long and 1 inch wide, and have a hairy texture. The upper surface of the leaves is variegated with stripes of silver, green, pink, and purple, while the underside is a deep purple color.The plant produces small, three-petaled flowers that are pink or white in color and bloom in the summer. The flowers are not very showy and are often removed to encourage foliage growth.
Care Guide
Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor is a relatively easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in a warm and humid environment. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Make sure to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.Sunlight: Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in full shade.Hardiness Zones: This plant is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, mealybugs, and root rot. To prevent these issues, make sure to keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoid overwatering. If pests are present, treat the plant with a solution of neem oil and water. If root rot is suspected, remove the affected parts of the plant and repot it in fresh soil.
Habitat
Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in tropical forests and along riverbanks. In its natural habitat, the plant grows as a groundcover and is often found growing in areas with high humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Q: Can Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor tolerate direct sunlight?
A: Yes, but it prefers bright, indirect sunlight.Q: What should I do if my plant has root rot?
A: Remove the affected parts of the plant and repot it in fresh soil.Q: How often should I fertilize Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Related Plants
- Tradescantia Fluminensis
- Tradescantia Pallida
- Tradescantia Andersoniana
References
- “Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287478. Accessed 19 Nov. 2021.
- “How to Grow and Care for Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor.” Gardenista, 16 Mar. 2021, www.gardenista.com/posts/how-to-grow-and-care-for-tradescantia-zebrina-quadricolor-wandering-jew/. Accessed 19 Nov. 2021.
- “Tradescantia Zebrina Quadricolor Care Guide.” Bloomscape, www.bloomscape.com/plant-care-guide/tradescantia-zebrina-quadricolor/. Accessed 19 Nov. 2021.
