Tradescantia Zebrina Tradescantia zebrina
At a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- 5000–25000 lux
- Water
- Every 5–9 days
- Top 2cm of soil
- Humidity
- 40–70%
- Tolerates dry air
- Temperature
- 12–28°C
- Ideal 18–24°C
- Soil pH
- 5.5–7
- well-draining
- Mature size
- 25 cm tall
- 60 cm wide
- Native to
- Mexico, Central America, Caribbean
- Growth
- Fast
- Trailing
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Tradescantia Zebrina based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
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Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Tradescantia Zebrina Tradescantia zebrina | Golden Pothos Epipremnum aureum | Heartleaf Philodendron Philodendron hederaceum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect | Medium indirect | Medium indirect |
| Water | 5–9 days | 7–14 days | 7–10 days |
| Pet safe | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs |
| Difficulty | Very Easy | Very Easy | Very Easy |
| Mature size | 25 cm | 1000 cm | 100 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Tradescantia Zebrina prefers bright indirect (5000–25000 lux) . Bright light intensifies the purple-and-silver striping. Dim light fades the pattern to plain green.
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Tradescantia Zebrina every 5– 9 days during the growing season, allowing Top 2cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Consistent moisture matters here — long dry spells will show up as crispy leaf edges.
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Frequently asked questions about Tradescantia Zebrina
How often should I water Tradescantia Zebrina?
Water Tradescantia Zebrina every 5–9 days during the growing season, allowing Top 2cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does Tradescantia Zebrina need?
Tradescantia Zebrina prefers bright indirect (5000–25000 lux). Bright light intensifies the purple-and-silver striping. Dim light fades the pattern to plain green.
Is Tradescantia Zebrina toxic to cats?
Tradescantia Zebrina is toxic to cats (mild severity). Toxic compounds: irritant sap. Common symptoms: dermatitis, skin irritation, mild GI upset if ingested.
Is Tradescantia Zebrina toxic to dogs?
Tradescantia Zebrina is toxic to dogs (mild severity). Toxic compounds: irritant sap. Common symptoms: dermatitis, skin irritation, mild GI upset if ingested.
How big does Tradescantia Zebrina grow?
Tradescantia Zebrina reaches about 25 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is fast.