Plant Profile
Tradescantia
a.k.a. Inch Plant // Spiderwort
The Tradescantia is an attractive vining plant with awesome variegated leaves that looks best when displayed in a hanging planter. There are a number of varieties of Tradescantia, with some even being viewed as weeds due to the plant being able to root and spread so easily. However, there are some Tradescantia varieties that make for brilliant houseplants, such as Tradescantia Zebrina and Tradescantia Pallida. The Tradescantia can easily adapt to different environments, is fast growing and low maintenance, making it a fantastic houseplant to add to an urban jungle.
Top Tips
✔ Prune the Tradescantia regularly to help maintain the plant’s bushy appearance.
Plant Care
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The Tradescantia prefers bright, indirect light. If the plant doesn’t receive the correct amount of light its variegation will begin to fade.
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The soil of the Tradescantia should be kept moist and should not be allowed to dry out too much. If the top dry feels dry to touch then the plant will need to be watered. During the winter watering can be cut back on significantly.
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The Tradescantia prefers slightly higher humidity levels. it is best to position the plant in a humid environment such as a bathroom or kitchen, alternatively mist the plant regularly to help boost humidity levels.
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Feed the Tradescantia once a month during the growing period using a diluted liquid fertiliser, always make sure the plant’s soil is moist before using fertiliser. Avoid overfeeding the plant as this can result in the leaves’ variegation fading.
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During the day the Tradescantia can tolerate temperatures between 12 - 26°C. At night the temperature should not fall below 10°C.
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This plant is toxic; keep away from children and pets.
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The Tradescantia is super easy to propagate using stem cuttings. Plant the cutting in fresh potting soil, no rooting hormone is needed. Water the cutting regularly and within a few weeks it should take root.
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The Tradescantia is fast growing and so repotting annually is recommended.
Quick plant check up
Wilting leaves
This will be the result of the plant being under-watered. Aim to keep the plant’s soil moist, but do not allow it to become soggy.
Browning leaves
This will probably be caused by the plant receiving too much direct sunlight. Make sure to position the plant in a spot where it will receive bright, indirect light.
Leggy growth
This will probably be the result of the plant not receiving enough light. This can also cause the variegation to fade. Move the plant to a brighter spot to encourage new growth.