The Wandering Jew plant (Tradescantia zebrina, Tradescantia fluminensis, and related species) is a vibrant, fast-growing houseplant prized for its purple-and-green striped leaves and trailing habit. This definitive guide covers every aspect of care, from watering to troubleshooting, ensuring your plant thrives indoors or outdoors.
Table of Contents
- Watering Your Wandering Jew
- Light Requirements
- Soil & Potting Mix
- Temperature & Humidity
- Fertilizing Tips
- Pruning & Propagation
- Common Problems & Fixes
- Seasonal Care
- Toxicity & Pet Safety
- FAQs
Watering Your Wandering Jew
Golden Rule: Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry between waterings.
Pro Tips
Spring/Summer: Water every 5–7 days (growth phase)
Winter: Reduce to every 10–14 days (dormancy)
Bottom-watering: Ideal to avoid leaf rot
For details: How to Water a Wandering Jew Plant (Cluster link)
Light Requirements
Ideal: Bright, indirect light (east/west windows)
Avoid: Direct midday sun (scorches leaves)
Low light: Causes leggy growth and faded colors
Soil & Potting Mix
Best Mix
50% potting soil + 30% perlite + 20% peat moss
Repotting: Every 1–2 years in spring
Cluster Resource: Wandering Jew Soil Guide
Temperature & Humidity
Temp: 60–80°F (15–27°C). Avoid drafts
Humidity: 40–60%. Use a humidifier or pebble tray if air is dry
Fertilizing Tips
Balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) monthly in spring/summer
Dilute to half-strength to avoid burn
Stop fertilizing in winter
Pruning & Propagation
Pruning
Trim leggy stems above a leaf node to encourage bushiness
Propagation
Snip 4–6″ stems, root in water or soil
Guide: Wandering Jew Propagation (Cluster link)
Common Problems & Fixes
| Symptom | Cause | Solution |
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering | Dry out soil, repot if root rot |
| Brown crispy edges | Low humidity | Mist leaves or group plants |
| Stretched stems | Low light | Move to brighter spot |
Deep Dive: Wandering Jew Problems Solved (Cluster link)
Seasonal Care
Spring: Resume fertilizing, increase watering
Summer: Shield from intense heat
Fall/Winter: Reduce water, stop fertilizing
Toxicity & Pet Safety
Toxic to cats/dogs (mild irritation if ingested)
Pet-safe alternative: Spider plant (Chlorophytum)
FAQs
Q: How fast does it grow?
A: Up to 1–2 inches per week in ideal conditions.
Q: Can it grow outdoors?
A: Yes (USDA zones 9–11). Protect from frost.
Q: Why is it called “Wandering Jew”?
A: Named for its trailing growth habit (like the legend of the wandering figure). [Consider adding a note about modern sensitivity to the name.]