Tradescantia Zebrina
Tradescantia zebrina · Commelinaceae
- Light
- Bright-indirect
- Water
- Moderate
- Humidity
- Average
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- No
- Propagation
- Stem Cuttings
Common problems: Spider MitesAphidsRoot RotMealybugs
Quick facts
- Light: Bright indirect · Water: When top inch dries
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pet-safe: No
Description
A fast, trailing plant with purple undersides and metallic silver-green striping on the leaves. It grows quickly, roots easily, and often looks best when refreshed from cuttings rather than kept as one aging, leggy plant forever.
Care
- Light: Bright indirect keeps the purple and silver contrast strong.
- Water: Water when the top inch dries; do not keep soggy.
- Soil & potting: Standard well-draining potting mix.
- Humidity & temperature: Average indoor conditions suit it well.
- Feeding: Light feeding spring-summer.
- Repotting / propagation: Pinch often to keep it fuller.
Propagation
Extremely easy from stem cuttings. Nodes root readily in water or soil, and frequent restarting is part of the normal maintenance rhythm for a good-looking plant. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Treat as not pet-safe. The sap can irritate skin, and pets chewing foliage may get mouth irritation or stomach upset.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Spider Mites — especially on stressed, dry plants.
- Aphids — often on soft new growth.
- Root Rot — from heavy, wet soil.
- Mealybugs — less common, but possible at dense nodes.
- Long bare stems? Usually not a pest issue · it wants stronger light and regular pinching.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.