Crassifolia Spiderwort
tradescantia crassifolia
Also known as: ["Crassifolia Wandering Jew","Fat-Leaf Spiderwort"]
Overview
A trailing herbaceous perennial with fleshy, broad leaves and delicate flowers, native to Central and South America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Commelinales |
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Genus: | Tradescantia |
| Botanical Name: | Tradescantia crassifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- 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 control size.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; trim back up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light; tolerates some direct morning sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost occasionally.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers warm, stable conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat/cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, 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
- Take cutting with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional change.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 1–3 weeks; establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), water/soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove leggy growth.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune healthy stems; remove dead/damaged growth; discard cuttings or propagate.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure 1–2 inches of extra space.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; place in slightly larger pot with drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are 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
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf curling.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests/diseases.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate from drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration despite adequate watering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
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 crassifolia may experience mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to cats but can cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Tradescantia crassifolia by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not considered highly toxic to dogs but can cause mild discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicTradescantia crassifolia contains sap that can cause mild skin irritation upon contact and mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tradescantia crassifolia toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Tradescantia crassifolia?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, allowing it to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Tradescantia crassifolia flower?
A: Yes, it produces delicate, three-petaled flowers that typically bloom in spring and summer.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light; tolera |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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