Tradescantia fluminensis ‘White Cobra’ – Inch Plant

A fast-growing and eye-catching trailing houseplant, Tradescantia fluminensis ‘White Cobra’ is prized for its bold white and green striped foliage and easy-going nature. The elongated leaves form dense, cascading growth that works beautifully in hanging pots, on shelves, or trailing from planters. With regular trimming, it stays lush and compact, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers.

Scientific Name
Tradescantia fluminensis ‘White Cobra’ (of rivers or flowing water, referring to its natural habitat)

Previously widely sold as Tradescantia albiflora. Botanically, albiflora is now treated as a synonym of Tradescantia fluminensis, which is the currently accepted name.

Synonyms
Tradescantia albiflora ‘White Cobra’

Common Name
Inch Plant, Wandering Dude (avoid outdated or offensive common names)

Origin
Native to South America, particularly Brazil and Argentina, where it grows as a spreading groundcover in warm, humid environments.

Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Good light helps maintain strong variegation. Tolerates medium light, but growth may become leggier and leaf markings less defined. Avoid strong direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.

Water
Allow the top few centimetres of compost to dry out between waterings. Water more frequently during spring and summer, reducing watering in autumn and winter. Avoid waterlogged soil.

Humidity
Happy in average household humidity. Tolerates higher humidity but does not require misting.

Soil
Use a free-draining houseplant compost with added perlite for airflow. Repot every 1–2 years or refresh the soil as needed.

Food
Feed every 2–3 waters during the growing season with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser. Reduce feeding significantly in winter.

Temperature
Ideal temperature range is 18–26°C. Avoid cold draughts and temperatures below 10–12°C.

Pet-safe
Sap may cause mild skin irritation and can be irritating if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.

Sprouts Top Tips
Regular trimming keeps this plant compact and encourages fuller, bushier growth – cut stems can be easily propagated.

Extras
Extremely easy to propagate from cuttings; stems will root readily in water or compost.

Did You Know?
In the wild, Tradescantia fluminensis spreads by rooting wherever its stems touch the ground, allowing it to recover quickly and form dense mats.