Tradescantia fluminensis 'Variegata' (Wandering Jew, Inch Plant)

Plant Profile

Tradescantia fluminensis 'Variegata' is a popular, fast-growing trailing houseplant with ovate leaves striped in green, white, and cream. The undersides are often purple. It roots easily at nodes. Small, white, three-petaled flowers appear sporadically. Can be invasive outdoors in warm climates.

Key Characteristics

• Family: Commelinaceae (ko-mel-ih-NAY-see-ee)
• Genus: Tradescantia (trad-es-KAN-tee-uh)
• Species: fluminensis (floo-min-EN-sis)
• Cultivar: 'Variegata'

Growing Conditions

Bright, indirect light; tolerates low light. Warmth, humidity. Well-drained potting mix. Keep moist. Frost tender (zones 9–11 outdoors).

Landscape Uses

Hanging baskets, mixed containers, groundcover in frost-free shade (with caution).

Maintenance

Pinch to keep bushy. Propagate easily from cuttings. Watch for spider mites.