Tradescantia zebrina

Tradescantia zebrina is a creeping perennial plant in the spiderwort family, Commelinaceae, grown widely as an ornamental for its striped purple-and-silver foliage.

Tradescantia zebrina is a creeping perennial plant in the spiderwort family, Commelinaceae, grown widely as an ornamental for its striped purple‑and‑silver foliage. It is native to parts of Mexico and Central America, has been introduced widely elsewhere, and is commonly kept as a houseplant or used as groundcover in warm climates. In Canada, it is mainly relevant as a popular indoor houseplant because it is not frost‑hardy and is typically grown outdoors only in sheltered or warm‑season conditions.

Description

Tradescantia zebrina is a creeping herbaceous perennial with trailing stems. Its leaves are variegated with silver and purple stripes. The plant roots at the nodes, allowing it to spread rapidly. It is valued in horticulture for its colourful foliage and fast growth.

Distribution and habitat

The species is native to Mexico and Central America and has become naturalized in parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, South America, and on various islands. It typically grows in wet forest and thicket habitats, often in shady or partially open sites.

Cultivation

Tradescantia zebrina is widely grown as a houseplant and as an outdoor ornamental in frost‑free regions. It is suitable for warm climates and for container or trailing plant use. The plant grows rapidly and can naturalize or become weedy in suitable climates.

Taxonomy and names

The accepted scientific name is Tradescantia zebrina, published by Bosse in 1849. Historical synonyms include Zebrina pendula and Tradescantia pendula. Common names vary by region and include silver inch plant, zebra plant, wandering dude, and wandering Jew. The name 'wandering Jew' is considered controversial, and alternative common names are used.