Tradescantia cerinthoides

Wandering Dude

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Taxonomy

Family Commelinaceae · Genus Tradescantia

Description

Tradescantia cerinthoides is a fast-growing, trailing spiderwort with succulent-like stems and green leaves flushed purple beneath. Easygoing and forgiving, it shines in hanging baskets or as a colorful shelf cascade, producing small three-petaled pink blooms in warm seasons.

Common Names

Wandering DudeInch PlantThick-leaved SpiderwortTrailing Spiderwort

Context

nativeRegion

Mesoamerica (Mexico to Central America)

usdaZones

9–11 outdoors; commonly grown indoors elsewhere

companionPlants

Tradescantia zebrina, Tradescantia pallida, Plectranthus (Swedish ivy), Peperomia, Coleus, Begonia

culturalUses

Primarily ornamental—used in hanging baskets, mixed planters, and as a vivid trailing or edging accent in frost-free gardens.

Care

Care Requirements

LightBright, indirect light for best color; tolerates some gentle morning sun. Lower light reduces vigor and variegation.

WateringWater when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Keep evenly moist but never soggy; reduce watering in cooler months.

SoilWell-draining potting mix with perlite or pumice (e.g., 2 parts all-purpose mix, 1 part perlite). Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.

FertilizerHalf-strength balanced liquid feed every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; none or very light feeding in fall–winter.

HumidityAverage household humidity is fine; 40–60% ideal. Brief boosts help prevent crispy tips in dry homes.

TemperatureOptimal 60–85°F (16–29°C). Protect from cold drafts; avoid temps below 50°F (10°C).

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitTrailing, creeping perennial with branching, succulent-like stems

Mature SizeVines 12–24+ in (30–60+ cm) long; spreads by nodes

Growth RateFast

BloomingSmall three-petaled pink to magenta flowers in spring through summer with good light

DormancySemi-dormant/slowed growth in cool, short-day months; resume vigor with warmth and longer days

Propagation

MethodsStem cuttings in water, Stem cuttings in soil, Division, Tip layering

DifficultyEasy

Best SeasonSpring to early summer (anytime indoors with warm, bright conditions)

Maintenance & Notes

PruningPinch tips regularly to encourage bushiness and prevent legginess; hard cutback in spring rejuvenates older plants.

RepottingRepot every 12–18 months or when roots fill the pot; refresh top inch of soil annually if not upsizing.

Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and fungus gnats; root rot from overwatering. Improve airflow and drainage.

ToxicitySap can irritate skin; may cause mild GI upset in pets if ingested. Keep out of reach of sensitive pets and children.

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