While all Tradescantia species share some traits, their care needs and visual appeal vary dramatically. This guide compares the 5 most common varieties, helping you choose the perfect one for your space and avoid cultivation mistakes.
Part of our Wandering Jew Plant Varieties Guide (Pillar Page)
1. Leaf Characteristics
Visual Identification Guide
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[Variety] [Leaf Appearance] [Underside]
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T. zebrina Purple with silver stripes Deep magenta
T. fluminensis Small solid green/white Pale green
T. pallida Pointed solid purple Purple
T. mundula Pink/white/green variegation Pink tint
T. spathacea Sword-shaped, purple/green Silver sheen
Key Differences:
- Zebrina is the only striped variety
- Pallida has the deepest purple foliage
- Spathacea grows in rosettes, not trails
2. Growth Habits & Sizes
| Variety | Growth Rate | Mature Length | Habit |
| T. zebrina | Fast (8″/month) | 6-10 feet | Trailing |
| T. fluminensis | Moderate | 2-3 feet | Compact trailing |
| T. pallida | Fast | 1-2 feet tall, 3-5 feet spread | Upright then trailing |
| T. mundula | Slow | 1-2 feet | Bushy |
| T. spathacea | Moderate | 8-12″ tall | Rosette |
Design Tip: Use zebrina/pallida for hanging baskets, spathacea for tabletop displays.
3. Light & Water Needs
Care Comparison Chart
| Variety | Ideal Light | Water Frequency | Special Needs |
| T. zebrina | Bright indirect | Weekly | Prune frequently |
| T. fluminensis | Low to bright | Every 10 days | High humidity |
| T. pallida | Full sun to part shade | Weekly outdoors, biweekly indoors | Sun for color |
| T. mundula | Bright indirect | When 50% dry | Avoid wet leaves |
| T. spathacea | Medium light | Every 2 weeks | Drought-tolerant |
Expert Insight: The Royal Horticultural Society notes pallida is the most drought-resistant variety.
4. Hardiness & Climate Suitability
Outdoor Growing Zones
| Variety | Min Temp | Best Zones | Notes |
| T. zebrina | 50°F (10°C) | 10-11 | Frost-tender |
| T. fluminensis | 45°F (7°C) | 9-11 | Invasive in warm climates |
| T. pallida | 30°F (-1°C) | 7-11 | Dies back in frost, regrows |
| T. spathacea | 40°F (4°C) | 9-11 | Rosette protects crown |
Warning: T. fluminensis is banned in some areas due to invasiveness (USDA Alert).
5. Special Features
Unique Traits
- Zebrina: Best for quick coverage (fastest grower)
- Fluminensis: Only variety that flowers frequently (white blooms)
- Pallida: Only type that tolerates full sun
- Mundula: Rare tricolor foliage (collector’s plant)
- Spathacea: Only non-trailing form
Toxicity Note: All varieties are mildly toxic to pets (ASPCA).
6. FAQs
Q: Which variety is best for low light?
A: T. fluminensis – survives with just 50 lux (north-facing windows).
Q: Why does my pallida turn green indoors?
A: Needs 4+ hours of direct sun to maintain purple color.
Q: Which grows fastest in water propagation?
A: T. zebrina roots in 5-7 days vs. 10-14 for others.