Tradescantia Zebrina - Care Sheet
Overview
Meet Tradescantia zebrina, the stunning trailing houseplant also known as inch plant, zebra plant, or wandering dude. This fast-growing tropical beauty from Mexico and Central America captivates with its lance-shaped leaves featuring green-to-purple uppersides striped in silvery-white and deep magenta undersides. Perfect for beginners, it thrives indoors as a hanging basket star or groundcover in warm climates, bringing sparkle and color to shelves, windowsills, or outdoor pots. Its tough nature forgives occasional neglect, but consistent care keeps those iridescent stripes popping year-round.
Quick Facts
| Scientific name | Tradescantia zebrina |
|---|---|
| Common name | Zebra plant, inch plant, wandering dude |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Pet-safe? | No |
| Light | Bright indirect; tolerates lower light |
| Water | Allow topsoil to dry between waterings |
| Humidity | 45%+ relative humidity |
| Temperature | 18–24°C / 65–75°F (min. 13°C / 55°F) |
| Soil | Peat-based with perlite; well-draining |
| Fertilizer | Balanced liquid every 2 weeks (spring-summer, half-strength) |
| Repotting | Spring, every 1–2 years or when rootbound |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings in water or soil |
Light
Give your Tradescantia zebrina bright indirect light for the best color intensity—think east- or west-facing windows. It sparkles in these conditions, with silvery stripes gleaming and purples deepening. Too little light causes leggy stems and faded variegation; pinch them back and move to brighter spots. Direct sun works in cooler climates but can scorch leaves in hot areas—provide afternoon shade outdoors. Lower light is tolerable indoors, but expect sparser growth and greener leaves.
Water
Water when the top 2.5 cm (1 in) of soil feels dry, keeping it lightly moist during growth but allowing it to dry slightly between sessions. Overwatering leads to root rot, so use pots with drainage and empty saucers promptly. In winter, cut back to prevent soggy soil—wilted stems often signal excess moisture. Thoroughly soak until water runs out, then wait. This forgiving plant rebounds well from occasional dry spells.
Humidity
Aim for 45% relative humidity or higher to mimic its tropical roots and prevent brown leaf tips. Dry indoor air, especially in winter, stresses it—mist leaves regularly or use a pebble tray. Grouping with other plants or a cool-mist humidifier works wonders. Fine hairs on leaf edges love the moisture, keeping that signature sparkle alive without encouraging pests.
Temperature
Keep temperatures steady at 18–24°C (65–75°F) daytime, with nights not dipping below 13°C (55°F). It handles average room conditions effortlessly but dislikes drafts, sudden cold, or heat above 29°C (85°F). Outdoors, it's perennial in zones 9–11; elsewhere, treat as an annual or bring inside before frost. Stable warmth promotes trailing stems and vibrant foliage.
Soil & Potting
Choose a peat moss-based potting mix amended with perlite or use African violet mix for quick drainage and aeration. Succulent stems hate waterlogged roots, so loose, rich soil prevents rot. Slightly acidic pH (around 6.0–6.5) suits it best. Repot into terracotta for faster drying if you're a frequent waterer. This setup keeps growth vigorous and leaves healthy.
Feeding
Fertilize every two weeks in spring and summer with a balanced 10-10-10 water-soluble formula diluted to half strength. Skip winter or reduce to monthly, as it's not a heavy feeder—overdoing it fades those pretty stripes. Apply after watering to avoid root burn. A light touch keeps your plant lush without legginess.
Repotting
Repot in spring every 1–2 years or when roots crowd the pot—choose one just 2.5–5 cm (1–2 in) larger. Gently tease out roots, trim any rot, and refresh soil. Pinch back leggy stems post-repot for bushier growth. Hanging baskets or shallow pots suit its trailing habit perfectly. Fresh soil revives tired plants quickly.
Propagation
Super easy—snip 7.5 cm (3 in) stem-tip cuttings in spring or summer and root in water or moist soil. Nodes root in 2–3 weeks; change water weekly to prevent bacteria. Plant rooted cuttings in potting mix, and you'll have free plants for friends. Layering works too: pin stems to soil at nodes for instant new growth. Share the love—it's incredibly forgiving for newbies.
Common Problems
Leggy Growth
Stems stretch with sparse leaves in low light. Pinch tips regularly and boost to brighter indirect light for compact, colorful growth.
Brown Leaf Tips
Dry air or underwatering culprits. Increase humidity with misting or trays, and check soil moisture before watering.
Faded Variegation
Too little light or excess fertilizer washes out stripes. Move to brighter spot and ease up on feeding.
Pests (Aphids/Spider Mites)
Check new growth for aphids; webbing signals mites in dry air. Hose off, increase humidity, and use insecticidal soap.
Root Rot
Soggy soil from overwatering. Trim rotted roots, repot in fresh mix, and let dry fully between waterings.
Toxicity & Pet Safety
Not pet-safe—Tradescantia zebrina is toxic to cats, dogs, and can irritate human skin. Its watery sap causes dermatitis in sensitive folks; wear gloves when pruning. Trailing stems tempt curious pets, so hang high or keep out of reach. Symptoms include vomiting or skin rash—contact a vet or doctor if ingested or handled excessively. Opt for safer alternatives if pets roam free.
Seasonal Care
Spring/Summer: Peak growth—water regularly, fertilize biweekly, prune for bushiness. Move outdoors to shaded spots after frost risk passes, acclimating slowly to avoid sunburn.
Fall: Reduce fertilizer, water less as light fades.
Winter: Low-light dormancy—water sparingly, maintain humidity, hold fertilizer. Indoor temps above 13°C (55°F) keep it happy. Prune hard in early spring for fresh starts.
Quick Tips
- Pinch tips often for fuller, trailing plants—great for small spaces.
- Rotate weekly for even growth and max sparkle on all sides.
- Propagate extras to refresh pots or gift to friends.
- Acclimate slowly to brighter light to prevent leaf scorch.
- Use distilled water if tap has fluoride—sensitive leaves show tips browning.
- Pair in mixed planters as understory for taller tropicals like ficus.
- Clean leaves monthly with a damp cloth for that glossy shine.