Spiderwort
tradescantia cerinthoides
Also known as: ["Wandering Jew","Spiderwort"]
Overview
A trailing or climbing perennial herbaceous plant with attractive, often variegated foliage and delicate flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Commelinales |
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Genus: | Tradescantia |
| Botanical Name: | Tradescantia cerinthoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments, rarely needed in humid climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only overgrown or damaged stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light, tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in low light.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pot has drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost occasionally.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 1–3 weeks; new growth in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jar of water.
Quick Tips
Use multiple cuttings for higher success; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged stems; encourage bushiness.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; discard excess water.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent standing moisture.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, or stunted growth in response to sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop or browning in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or scorch in temperatures above 90°F (32°C) without adequate humidity.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure proper ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Tradescantia cerinthoides may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant's sap can cause mild oral and skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Tradescantia cerinthoides by dogs may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant compounds. The sap can also cause mild oral irritation if licked or chewed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicTradescantia cerinthoides contains sap that may cause mild irritation upon contact with skin or mucous membranes. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of oxalates and other irritants.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tradescantia cerinthoides toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Tradescantia cerinthoides?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days.
Q: Does Tradescantia cerinthoides flower?
A: Yes, it produces delicate, three-petaled flowers, usually in shades of blue, purple, or white.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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