Tradescantia /ˌtɹædɪˈskæntiə/
Common name: Spiderwort · Inch plant · Wandering dude
Tradescantia is a genus of fast-growing, trailing herbaceous plants native to the Americas. Many species have striped or purple-tinged foliage and snap easily at the stem joints, rooting wherever a piece touches soil. They are among the easiest houseplants to propagate from cuttings.
Care summary
Sun
Bright indirect light for best color
Water
Keep evenly moist; don't waterlog
Soil
Standard, well-draining potting mix
Hardiness
Zones 9–12
Mature height
Trailing stems up to 60 cm (2 ft)
Pet safe
Mildly toxic; sap may irritate skin
Fun facts
- Cuttings root in water in just a few days.
- The common name 'inch plant' refers to the inch-long gaps between leaf nodes.
- Purple, silver-striped, and pink cultivars are common houseplants.
- Flowers typically have three petals and open one at a time along the stems.