Wandering Jew is a popular houseplant that is known for its beautiful foliage and easy-to-care nature. The plant belongs to the Tradescantia family, which comprises several species and cultivars. Each of these types of wandering jew plants has unique features that make them stand out. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of wandering jew plants and their characteristics.
The common wandering jew plant, also known as Zebrina pendula or Tradescantia zebrina, is one of the most popular types of wandering jew plants. This plant has green leaves with silver stripes on the upper side and purple undersides. The leaves are ovate and up to 2.5 inches long.
Common wandering jew plants are fast-growing and can reach up to 2-3 feet in length. They prefer bright indirect light and moist, well-draining soil. This plant is perfect for hanging baskets or as a trailing plant on shelves.
The purple heart plant, also known as Setcreasea purpurea or Tradescantia pallida, is a stunning type of wandering jew plant with long, pointed leaves that are vivid purple in color. The leaves can grow up to 7 inches long and 2 inches wide.
Purple heart plants prefer bright light but can tolerate partial shade. They need well-draining soil and moderate watering to thrive. This plant is ideal for adding a pop of color to any room or garden.
The Bolivian jew plant, also known as Callisia repens or Turtle Vine, is a unique type of wandering jew plant that has small, round leaves that resemble the shell of a turtle. The leaves are green on top and purple on the underside.
Bolivian jew plants are low-growing and can reach up to 6-8 inches in height. They prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. This plant is perfect for terrariums or as a ground cover in outdoor gardens.
The variegated wandering jew plant, also known as Tradescantia fluminensis or Inch Plant, is a beautiful type of wandering jew plant with green leaves that are striped with white or silver. The leaves are oval and up to 2 inches long.
Variegated wandering jew plants prefer bright indirect light and moist soil. They can grow up to 1-2 feet in length and make excellent hanging basket plants.
There are several other types of wandering jew plants that are worth mentioning, including:
A: Yes, wandering jew plants are toxic to pets and humans. The sap of the plant can cause skin irritation, and ingesting the plant can cause vomiting and other symptoms.
A: Wandering jew plants prefer moist soil but can’t tolerate standing water. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
A: Wandering jew plants are easy to propagate. You can take stem cuttings and place them in water or soil. The cuttings will root within a few weeks, and you can transplant them to their own pot.
A: Wandering jew plants can become leggy if they don’t receive enough light. Ensure your plant is getting bright indirect light, and pinch back the stems to encourage branching. You can also prune the plant to maintain its shape and encourage bushy growth.
In conclusion, wandering jew plants are versatile, easy-to-care-for houseplants that come in a variety of types and cultivars. Whether you’re looking for a pop of color or a trailing plant for your shelves, there’s a wandering jew plant for every need. Just remember to keep them away from pets and children and give them the proper care they need to thrive.