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.
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.]