Wandering jew (Tradescantia fluminensis)
Care, watering, light and tips for Wandering jew on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Commelinaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 5 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Wandering jew
Tradescantia fluminensis, commonly known as "spiderwort" or "wandering jew," is a fast-growing trailing plant with small, bright green oval leaves, sometimes with purple undersides. It's ideal for hanging baskets or as a groundcover indoors, adding a touch of freshness and vibrancy. Its creeping stems and dense foliage make it very attractive for decorating shelves or ledges.
Native range
South America: southeastern Brazil, northeastern Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Care tips
It prefers bright indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, while excessive shade reduces its coloration. Water it when the top layer of the soil feels dry to the touch, avoiding waterlogging which can lead to root rot. Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is overwatering, which is the main cause of its decline.
How to save a dying Wandering jew
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing or brown leaves, leaf drop, limp stems. Often indicate overwatering or lack of light.
- First aid
- Remove dead leaves. Check soil: if wet, stop watering. Move to brighter spot (no direct sun).
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its biggest foe. Prolonged low light also weakens stems and makes it vulnerable.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's very resilient. Take healthy stem cuttings and root them in water or moist soil to start anew.