Scientific Name
Tradescantia zebrina 'Quadricolor'
Common Name
Wandering Jew, Small-Leaf Spiderwort, 'Maiden's Blush' Inch Plant, Wandering Dude, Dayflower
Origin
Forests of Central America
Description
Tradescantia originate from the Central American jungle, where they survive by creeping along the forest floor or climbing over tree trunks; as a houseplant they will grow in long, trailing vines and are perfect as a hanging or dangling plant. This variety has slightly smaller leaves and a bushier growing habit than most other Tradescantiae, but what really makes it stand out is the variety of colour on its leaves. The usual bright green is striped with shades of pale green, white and pink, giving it the name 'Quadricolor', four-coloured. This variety is bushy and colourful, and will repay your care by growing and spreading its gorgeous foliage wherever you let it!
Light
Thrives in bright, indirect light; too little light will leave it leggy and damp, and too much bleached and dried-out.
Water
Water once the pot begins to feel light when lifted; these plants like to be moist, and prefer to be bottom-watered (using a dish underneath rather than pouring onto the soil) to prevent their leaves accumulating damp!
Humidity
Average humidity is fine, but your plant will benefit form an occasional misting or humidity tray.
Soil
Use a moisture-retentive, well-draining mix to keep this thirsty plant happy but not too soggy. Repot every three years if absolutely necessary; this plant is better potbound than drowning in soil.
Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.
Temperature
Temperature should ideally be between 16-30°C- make sure it doesn't drop below 10°C in winter.
Pet-safe
No; while this plant is not toxic, it can cause some bad reactions when eaten by pets, including itchy skin and upset stomachs.
Sprouts Top Tips
To keep tradescantia bushy rather than leggy, you can pinch off or trim longer stems, which can then themselves be propagated, making more plants to spread around your home or share with others!
