The Wandering Jew is a beloved houseplant recognized for its vibrant foliage and easy-going nature. This article delves into popular types, care best practices, and straightforward propagation tips, making it a complete guide for beginners and enthusiasts.
Types of Wandering Jew (Tradescantia)
Tradescantia zebrina, a low-lying herbaceous plant with variegated silvery-green leaves and purple undersides
Wandering Jew is not a single species, but a collection of Tradescantia plants admired for their striking leaf colors and patterns. Among the 70+ varieties, these are the most popular:
- Tradescantia fluminensis: Fleshy ovate leaves with green and white variegation. Often seen trailing from baskets or forming dense mats as groundcover. White, three-petaled flowers.
- Tradescantia zebrina (Striped Wandering Jew): Noted for purplish-green leaves with vivid silver stripes, resembling zebra patterns. Fast-growing, extremely hardy, and a favorite for its vivid colors.
- Tradescantia pallida (Purple Heart): Features elongated, deep violet leaves. Stands out for its intense solid purple hues, especially in full sun. Also occasional pink or lavender blooms.
- Tradescantia sillamontana (White Velvet): Has thick, olive-green leaves covered with white, velvety hairs. Very drought-tolerant and compact, with summer-blooming purple flowers.
- Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Quicksilver’: A cultivar showcasing glossy, green foliage with elegant white stripes. Especially striking as a ground cover or hanging basket option.
- Tradescantia zebrina ‘Tricolor’: Renowned for bold stripes in purple, green, and silver across the leaves, glowing brightest under strong light.
Care Guide for Wandering Jew
Wandering Jews are hardy plants that thrive with just a little attention:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sun can scorch leaf edges, but too little light will dull their colors.
- Water: Keep soil moist but never soggy. Water when the top inch of soil dries; avoid letting the plant sit in excess water.
- Soil: Well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix is ideal. They tolerate many soil types if drainage is good.
- Humidity: Enjoys normal room humidity. Can tolerate drier conditions but thrives in slightly humid air.
- Temperature: Best grown in temperatures between 18–24°C. Sensitive to frost.
- Feeding: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring-summer) with a half-strength balanced houseplant formula.
- Pruning: Regularly pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth and remove leggy stems.
Propagation Methods
One of the reasons Tradescantias are so popular is their ease of propagation:
- Stem Cuttings (Water Method):
- Cut a healthy stem just below a leaf node, ideally 4–6 inches in length.
- Remove leaves from the lowest part and place the cut end in water.
- Change the water every few days. Roots emerge in one to two weeks.
- Once roots are an inch long, transplant into soil.
- Stem Cuttings (Soil Method):
- Follow the same cutting instructions.
- Plant the cutting directly into moist potting mix.
- Keep soil consistently humid but not wet; roots will form in 1-2 weeks.
- Division: As these plants become bushy, simply divide clumps during repotting. Ensure each section has strong roots and foliage.
Tradescantias propagate so readily that cuttings are often shared among plant enthusiasts, leading to their reputation as “wandering” from one home to another.
Special Notes
- Pet Safety: Tradescantia species are mildly toxic to pets, so keep them out of reach of curious cats and dogs.
- Flowering: Although the foliage is the main attraction, Wandering Jews do produce delicate flowers—white, lavender, or pink—depending on the variety.
- Alternative Names: Due to the cultural sensitivity of the term “Wandering Jew,” alternatives like “Wandering Dude,” “Inch Plant,” or more scientific names are increasingly popular.
The Wandering Jew’s attractive appearance, forgiving care needs, and rapid propagation make it a top choice for both novice and experienced plant lovers. With a bit of light, regular pinching, and the occasional glass of water for new cuttings, this plant will reward any home or office with long-lasting, colorful foliage