A fast trailing plant with shimmering leaves striped silver and purple above, vivid purple below. Easy and vigorous, it cascades brilliantly from a hanging basket.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 20 cm tall
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Wandering Jew
Tradescantia zebrina is a fast-growing indoor plant in the Commelinaceae family. It reaches around 20 cm tall at maturity, with evergreen, variegated, purple-toned and silver-grey foliage.
Where to grow Wandering Jew
Wandering Jew suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Wandering Jew provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Wandering Jew does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Wandering Jew in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. For most gardens, it is low maintenance.
Using Wandering Jew in the garden
Wandering Jew earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and hanging baskets. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Wandering Jew sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and tropical climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Wandering Jew
Plant Sale lists Wandering Jew as potted plants. Use the quote builder above to ask about current stock, sizes and pricing.
