Inchplant (Tradescantia zebrina)
Care, watering, light and tips for Inchplant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Commelinaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Inchplant
Tradescantia zebrina is a very popular trailing plant, known for its oval, pointed leaves with silver, green stripes and an intense purple underside. Its rapid growth and attractive foliage make it ideal for hanging baskets or as a ground cover in terrariums, adding a vibrant splash of color to any indoor space.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It prefers bright, indirect light; excessive direct sunlight can scorch its leaves or dull its colors. Water when the top layer of the substrate is dry to the touch, avoiding waterlogging as it is susceptible to root rot. Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is neglecting pruning, which can cause the plant to become leggy and lose density at the base.
How to save a dying Inchplant
- Warning signs
- Pale leaves, soft or rotting stems, leggy growth.
- First aid
- Check drainage, reduce watering. Prune damaged stems. Bright, indirect light.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and low light. Doesn't tolerate soggy soil or darkness.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! Very resilient. Propagate healthy cuttings in water.