Zebrina is a genus of plants that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. It is commonly known as wandering Jew, inch plant, and spiderwort. Zebrina plants are native to Central and South America and are popular houseplants because of their attractive foliage and ease of care. There are several types of zebrina plants, each with its unique characteristics.
Tradescantia zebrina is the most common type of zebrina plant. It has elongated green leaves with purple stripes on the upper side and silver stripes on the lower side. The plant produces small pink flowers in summer. Tradescantia zebrina is a trailing plant that can grow up to 12 inches tall and 24 inches wide.
Tradescantia pallida, also known as purple heart or purple queen, is another popular type of zebrina plant. It has long, pointed leaves that are deep purple in color. The plant produces small pink flowers in summer. Tradescantia pallida is a trailing plant that can grow up to 18 inches tall and 24 inches wide.
Tradescantia fluminensis, also known as small-leaf spiderwort or inch plant, is a small-leaved variety of zebrina plant. It has lance-shaped leaves that are dark green with silver stripes on the upper side and purple undersides. The plant produces small white flowers in summer. Tradescantia fluminensis is a trailing plant that can grow up to six inches tall and 12 inches wide.
Tradescantia spathacea, also known as Moses-in-the-cradle or boat lily, is a unique type of zebrina plant. It has broad, lance-shaped leaves that are green on the upper side and purple on the undersides. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern, giving the plant a distinctive shape. The plant produces small white flowers in summer. Tradescantia spathacea is a compact plant that can grow up to 12 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
Rhoeo spathacea, also known as oyster plant or Moses-in-the-basket, is another unique type of zebrina plant. It has sword-shaped leaves that are green on the upper side and purple on the undersides. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern, giving the plant a distinctive shape. The plant produces small white flowers in summer. Rhoeo spathacea is a compact plant that can grow up to 12 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
Zebrina plants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for zebrina plants:
Zebrina plants prefer bright, indirect light. They can also tolerate low light conditions but will not thrive in these conditions.
Zebrina plants prefer moist soil but can tolerate drying out between watering. Water the plants when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Zebrina plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Fertilize zebrina plants every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Zebrina plants can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a cutting that is at least two inches long and place it in water until roots form. Once roots have formed, plant the cutting in soil.
Zebrina plants can be pruned to control their size and shape. Prune back any leggy or overgrown stems.
A: Yes, zebrina plants are toxic to pets if ingested. Keep them out of reach of pets and children.
A: Yes, zebrina plants can be grown outdoors in warm climates. They prefer partial shade and well-draining soil.
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or underwatering. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, and adjust watering as needed.
A: Yes, different types of zebrina plants can be grown together in the same pot. However, make sure they have similar growing requirements, including light and water needs.
A: Zebrina plants should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer.