Wandering Jew Hanging Plant

Wandering Jew Plant – Details

Scientific Information

• Scientific Name: Tradescantia zebrina (most common variety)

• Family: Commelinaceae

• Common Names:

  • Wandering Jew , Inch Plant , Spiderwort ,Wandering Dude ,Tradescantia Vine

 Plant Description

• Type: Perennial trailing herb

• Growth Habit: Fast-growing creeper or hanging plant — perfect for baskets, shelves, or as ground cover.

• Height & Spread:

  • Height: 10–15 cm

  • Trailing Length: 60–90 cm or more with care.

• Leaves:

  • Elliptic to lance-shaped, fleshy, glossy.

  • Upper side: green to purple with silvery zebra-like stripes.

  • Underside: deep purple, giving the plant its unique look.

• Stems: Soft, succulent, rooting easily at the nodes.

• Flowers: Small, three-petaled (usually purple or white), appear occasionally but are not the main ornamental feature.

SunLight

• Thrives in bright, indirect light 

• Some morning sun improves color vibrancy.

 Soil

• Prefers light, well-draining soil.

 Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist, but not soggy.

• Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry.

• Hanging baskets dry faster, so check more frequently.

 Fertilizer

• Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) once a month during spring and summer.

• Do not overfertilize — excessive nutrients can reduce leaf variegation.
  

 Pruning & Maintenance

• Regular pruning encourages bushy growth.

• Pinch off long stems to keep the plant full and trailing nicely.

• Remove any leggy or faded growth.

• Clean leaves occasionally to maintain their shine and vibrant colors.

 Uses & Benefits

•  Excellent indoor hanging plant — brightens up balconies, windows, or shelves.

•  Used as ground cover in warm climates.

•  Easy to grow & fast spreading.

•  Adds vibrant purple-green-silver foliage to indoor décor.

•  Can be used in terrariums and vertical gardens.