zebrina
zebrina
Zebrina
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Taxonomy
Family Commelinaceae · Genus Tradescantia
Description
Tradescantia zebrina is a fast-growing, trailing houseplant prized for its shimmering purple and silver-striped leaves. It’s very forgiving, roots easily from cuttings, and thrives in bright, indirect light—perfect for shelves and hanging baskets. Regular pinching keeps it lush and full.
Common Names
ZebrinaInch plantWandering dudeSilver inch plantZebra inch plant
Context
nativeRegion
Mexico to Central America (southeastern Mexico, Guatemala, Belize)
usdaZones
9–12 outdoors; commonly grown as a houseplant elsewhere
companionPlants
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum), Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum), Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental for hanging baskets, containers, and groundcover in frost-free climates. In some regions it can naturalize and be invasive; grow responsibly.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light for best color; tolerates medium light. A few hours of gentle morning sun boosts variegation; avoid harsh midday sun.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Keep evenly moist in active growth but never soggy. Reduce in winter.
SoilWell-draining potting mix with added perlite or bark. Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
FertilizerFeed monthly in spring–summer with a balanced, half-strength liquid fertilizer. Little to none in fall–winter.
HumidityAverage home humidity is fine; 40–60% is ideal. Mist lightly or use a pebble tray in very dry air.
TemperaturePrefers 60–80°F (16–27°C). Protect from drafts; avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitTrailing, creeping vine; dense, cascading stems with succulent nodes
Mature SizeStems 2–6+ ft long; mound height 6–12 in (15–30 cm)
Growth RateFast
BloomingSmall pink to lavender, three-petaled flowers sporadically in bright conditions; usually not showy indoors
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in winter with less light and cooler temps
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings in water, Stem cuttings in soil, Division, Tip layering
DifficultyVery easy
Best SeasonSpring to early summer (can root year-round indoors)
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPinch or trim tips regularly to encourage branching and prevent legginess. Rejuvenate by cutting back hard and re-rooting cuttings.
RepottingRepot yearly or when roots fill the pot; refresh soil to maintain vigor. Easy to restart from cuttings if plants become leggy.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs; treat early. Overwatering can cause root rot and fungus gnats. Leaves may scorch in intense sun.
ToxicitySap may cause skin irritation. Ingestion can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets; treat as mildly toxic to cats and dogs.