The popular houseplant often referred to as the Wandering Jew belongs to the genus Tradescantia. This genus includes various fast-growing, trailing species grown for their colorful foliage. Common indoor varieties include Tradescantia zebrina (silver, green, and purple stripes) and Tradescantia pallida (deep purple leaves). Native to the Americas, these plants are favored by enthusiasts for their vigorous growth and easy maintenance.
Light and Ideal Climate Conditions
The vibrant coloring of a Tradescantia plant is highly dependent on the quality and amount of light it receives. To maintain striking variegation, such as the silvery stripes of T. zebrina, the plant requires bright, indirect light throughout the day. Placing it near an east or west-facing window, or a few feet away from a south-facing window, provides the best conditions. Insufficient light causes stems to become thin and sparse (“legginess”), and the colorful variegation will fade to a duller green.
Conversely, harsh, direct afternoon sunlight can cause damage, leading to scorched leaf edges and a washed-out appearance. The plant thrives in standard indoor room temperatures, ideally ranging between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). While it tolerates average home humidity, this tropical genus appreciates a boost in moisture. Increase local humidity by placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water or by occasionally misting the foliage.
Watering and Fertilizing Schedule
Proper moisture management is crucial, as Tradescantia is susceptible to root problems from overwatering. Use a “soak and dry” approach, waiting until the top one to two inches of potting mix have completely dried out before watering. Soak the soil thoroughly until excess water flows freely from the drainage holes. Never let the plant sit in standing water, as this suffocates the roots and leads to root rot.
The plant benefits from a well-draining potting mix that allows for good aeration around the roots. During the active growing season (spring through summer), apply a diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer once a month. Diluting the fertilizer to half the recommended strength prevents nutrient burn and supports new foliage production. Stop fertilization completely during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Pruning and Propagation Techniques
Regular pruning is necessary to maintain a dense, bushy appearance, as Tradescantia naturally becomes long and sparse at the crown. Pinching back the tips of the longest stems encourages the plant to branch out, resulting in a fuller, more compact habit. Use clean scissors or pinch off the stem tips just above a leaf node to stimulate side shoots. Trimming back leggy vines refreshes the mother plant, promoting vigor and density closer to the pot.
This genus is remarkably easy to propagate, making it simple to refresh an old plant or start new ones. Take a healthy stem cutting four to six inches long, making a clean cut just below a leaf node. The node is the small bump on the stem where new roots will emerge. Place the cut end in a glass of water, ensuring the node is submerged, or plant it directly into moist, well-draining soil. Roots will typically form within one to two weeks in water, or readily in soil.