Tradescantia Zebrina 'burgundy' - Care Sheet
Overview
Meet the stunning Tradescantia Zebrina 'Burgundy', a trailing beauty with deep purple leaves accented by subtle silver stripes. This fast-growing houseplant, a cultivar of the classic Wandering Jew, adds a pop of color to shelves, hanging baskets, or bookcases. Native to the Americas, it's prized for its easy-care nature and ability to thrive indoors with minimal fuss. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned plant parent, this one rewards you with lush, cascading growth and even small purple flowers under the right conditions.
Quick Facts
| Scientific name | Tradescantia zebrina 'Burgundy' |
|---|---|
| Common name | Tradescantia Zebrina 'Burgundy' |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Pet-safe? | Unknown (Consult a professional if ingested) |
| Light | Bright indirect; <3ft/1m from window |
| Water | Let top soil dry; ~0.5 cups/120ml every 9 days (5" pot) |
| Humidity | Average; no extra needed |
| Temperature | 18–29°C / 65–85°F |
| Soil | Well-draining potting mix + perlite |
| Fertilizer | Repot yearly or dilute every 2–4 weeks (spring/summer) |
| Repotting | Yearly or when doubled in size |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings in water or soil |
Light
Your Tradescantia Zebrina 'Burgundy' loves bright indirect light to keep its rich purple hues vibrant and prevent leggy growth. Place it less than 3 feet (1 meter) from a south- or east-facing window for best results. Too little light causes leaves to fade and drop, while direct sun can scorch the foliage—aim for filtered rays that mimic its natural understory habitat. In lower light, growth slows, but it tolerates shade; just expect less color intensity.
Water
Water when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry, typically every 7–9 days for a 5-inch (13 cm) pot without direct sun—about 0.5 cups (120 ml) per session. Let soil dry out between waterings to avoid root rot, but never let it go bone-dry, as this leads to crispy, wilting leaves. Use room-temperature water and ensure pots have drainage holes. In brighter light or summer, check more often; reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Humidity
This adaptable plant handles average household humidity (40–60%) just fine—no humidifier required. If your air is particularly dry, a quick mist every few days or a pebble tray with water boosts leaf health and keeps those silver stripes shining. Group it with other plants for a natural humidity microclimate, but avoid over-misting to prevent fungal issues.
Temperature
Keep temperatures steady between 18–29°C (65–85°F), ideal for year-round growth. It shrugs off typical indoor conditions but dislikes drafts, sudden cold below 15°C (59°F), or hot spots above 30°C (86°F). Protect from air conditioning vents or open windows in winter to avoid leaf drop.
Soil & Potting
Opt for a well-draining potting mix like one with coco coir, peat, perlite, or vermiculite—add 20% perlite to standard mix for extra aeration. This prevents soggy roots while holding just enough moisture. Always choose pots with drainage holes; hanging or terracotta works great for its trailing habit, promoting healthy sprawl up to 3–5 feet (1–1.5 m).
Feeding
Fresh potting soil provides initial nutrients, so fertilize sparingly. During spring and summer, use a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer (half strength) every 2–4 weeks on moist soil. Skip in fall/winter or when dormant. Overfeeding causes leggy growth or burnt tips—less is more for this vigorous grower.
Repotting
Repot annually in spring or when roots fill the pot (doubles in size), moving to a pot 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) larger. Gently tease out roots if circling, refresh with new well-draining soil, and water lightly after. This keeps nutrients fresh and encourages bushier growth. Trim leggy stems during repotting for a fuller shape.
Propagation
Super easy—snip 4–6 inch (10–15 cm) stem cuttings with 2–3 nodes, just below a leaf. Root in water (change weekly, roots in 2–4 weeks) or moist soil; place in bright indirect light. Plant rooted cuttings in potting mix once roots hit 2–3 inches (5–8 cm). Spring is prime time, and you'll have free plants in no time—pinch tips to branch out new ones.
Common Problems
Leggy Growth
Stems stretch in low light; move closer to a window and prune tips to encourage bushiness.
Yellow or Drooping Leaves
Often overwatering; let soil dry fully, ensure drainage, and trim affected leaves.
Brown Crispy Tips or Edges
Underwatering, low humidity, or fertilizer burn; check soil moisture, mist occasionally, and dilute feeds.
Leaf Drop
Sudden changes in light, water, or temp; stabilize conditions and avoid full dry-outs.
Pests (Aphids/Spider Mites)
Wipe leaves with soapy water or rinse under shower; isolate and repeat as needed.
Toxicity & Pet Safety
Toxicity data is unknown for Tradescantia Zebrina 'Burgundy'. Tradescantias can irritate mouths or stomachs if chewed by pets or kids—err on caution. If ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (US: 800-222-1222) or a vet/ASPCA (888-426-4435). Keep out of reach of curious nibblers.
Seasonal Care
In spring/summer, ramp up water and feed for active growth; prune for shape. Winter brings dormancy—cut water by half, skip fertilizer, and provide cooler nights if possible. Growth slows, but a warm spot near a window keeps it happy. Flowers may appear indoors more readily than other zebrinas.
Quick Tips
- Pinch stem tips regularly for fuller, bushier plants.
- Rotate weekly for even growth and color.
- Never let roots sit in standing water—drainage is key.
- Propagate often; it's foolproof and multiplies your collection.
- Boost color with bright indirect light, not direct sun.
- Prune yellow lower leaves to focus energy on new growth.
- Group with humidity-lovers for a thriving plant shelf.