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Plant Profiles / Wandering dude
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Wandering dude
Tradescantia zebrina · Inch plant, wandering Jew
Fast trailing stems with purple and silver striped leaves. An easy, colourful hanging plant.
Bright indirectLight
WeeklyWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect
ShadeFull sun
Bright for colour.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Lightly moist.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
10–30°C (50–86°F)
CoolWarm
Frost tender.
Growth
Fast
SlowFast
Trails 1 m.
Soil
Potting mix
LeanRich
Free-draining.
Fertiliser
Monthly
RarelyOften
Diluted.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Sap irritates.
About this plant
Native to Mexico. Keep in pots; it can become weedy outdoors in Australia.
Best spots
Hanging pots, shelves and bright rooms.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Tradescantia zebrina |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Origin | Mexico |
| Plant type | Trailing perennial |
| Mature size | Trails 1 m |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Foliage | Striped purple |
| Toxicity | Irritant |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Pinch
Active growthPinch
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Leggy | Pinch. |
| Faded | Light. |
| Brown | Dry. |
| Rot | Wet. |
| Bare base | Replant cuttings. |
Common questions
Fast?
Very.
Weedy?
Keep potted.
Pets?
Irritant.
Propagate?
Easy.
