Tradescantia have made a come back recently, and are now some of the most popular hanging indoor plants, coming in a range of varieties. With stems that trail and foliage in shades of purple, silver and green. This tropical plant is easy to propagate making it a great gift to pass on to your plant loving friends.
Planting Calendar
Plants are readily available throughout the year.
Prepare
Position
Tradescantia prefers a well lit position out of direct sunlight. If placed in a position without enough light the plant will become leggy, with thin, smaller and fewer leaves.
Soil
Plant your Tradescantia into Kings House Plant Mix.
Plant
Repot when roots show through the holes at the bottom of the pot. Repot into a pot one size larger the the one it was in.
Care
Watering
Tradescantia prefers to be kept moist, do not allow the soil dry out as the leaves may turn brown. Reduce watering according to the temperature. Plants use less water in the cooler months of the year. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes and don't allow the plant does not sit in water.
Feeding
Feed regularly with Kings House Plant Liquid Food as per instructions on the bottle.
Spraying
Aphids and mealy bug can be a problem so spray with Groventive Garden at first sign of pests.
Pruning
Prune if plants become thin and leggy by pinching out the growing tips. This will encourage the plant to re- grow from lower down and thicken up.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Expert Tip
Variegated varieties need more light than green varieties, but no direct sunlight.
Tip
Propagate by taking cuttings from the plant and placing in water until roots appear. Re pot into potting mix and then gift to a friend.
Top Varieties
Tradescantia Zebrina
Yes you got it Zebrina as in Zebra, due to its stripes of purple and silver on its large leaves whos underside is purple. A fast grower that has rose purple flowers and hangs gracefully over the edge of its pot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tradescantia?
Tradescantia, commonly known as spiderwort or wandering Jew, is a popular houseplant known for its attractive foliage and easy-care nature. It features trailing vines and can come in a variety of colours, including green, purple, and variegated forms.
How often should I water Tradescantia?
Tradescantia prefers to be kept moist, do not allow the soil dry out as the leaves may turn brown. Reduce watering according to the temperature. Plants use less water in the cooler months of the year. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes and don't allow the plant does not sit in water.
How do I prune Tradescantia?
Prune if plants become thin and leggy by pinching out the growing tips. This will encourage the plant to re- grow from lower down and thicken up.
Is Tradescantia toxic to pets?
Tradescantia can be toxic to pets if ingested. It can cause mild to moderate irritation to the mouth and stomach, so it's best to keep it out of reach of curious pets.
How do I propagate Tradescantia?
Tradescantia is very easy to propagate. Simply cut a healthy stem with a few leaves and place it in water or directly into soil. Roots will develop quickly, and you'll have a new plant in no time.
