Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Tricolor’ Care & Growing Guide

Overview

Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Tricolor’, also known as Inch Plant or Wandering Jew ‘Tricolor’, is a striking trailing houseplant prized for its variegated foliage in shades of green, cream, and pink. Native to the subtropical regions of Brazil and Argentina, this cultivar is a vigorous grower both indoors and outdoors in suitable climates. In its native habitat, it has even been used as a ground cover to help prevent soil erosion.

Its adaptability, cascading habit, and vibrant coloration make it a favorite for hanging baskets, shelves, and decorative planters. With proper care, it can thrive year-round as a low-maintenance yet visually impactful plant.

Identification & Growth Habit

Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Tricolor’ is a perennial evergreen with slender, trailing stems that can reach several feet in length. Leaves are oval to lance-shaped, typically 1–2 inches long, and display irregular striping of green, creamy white, and pink. The pink tones are most vivid in bright, indirect light.

In the right conditions, the plant produces small, three-petaled white flowers, though it is primarily grown for its foliage. It can be grown as a trailing plant in hanging baskets or trained to climb with support such as a trellis or moss pole.

Light & Placement

• Optimal light: Bright, indirect light to maintain vivid variegation and pink hues.
• Tolerances: Medium light is acceptable, but foliage may revert to greener tones.
• Avoid: Prolonged direct midday sun, which can scorch leaves.

Place near an east- or north-facing window, or a few feet back from a bright south- or west-facing window filtered with sheer curtains.

Watering & Humidity

Water when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry to the touch. Use room-temperature water and ensure excess drains away freely to prevent root rot. Reduce watering slightly in fall and winter when growth slows.

• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity (50%+).
• Tips: Mist foliage occasionally, group with other plants, or use a humidifier to maintain moisture in the air.

Soil & Repotting

Use a well-draining, peat-based houseplant potting mix amended with perlite or coarse sand. This ensures adequate aeration and prevents waterlogging.

Repot every 1–2 years in spring when roots fill the container or growth slows. Choose a pot with drainage holes to protect against excess moisture.

Fertilizing

Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during the active growing season (spring through summer). Dilute to half the recommended strength for indoor use. Suspend or reduce feeding in fall and winter.

Pruning & Training

Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess. Pinch back stem tips to promote branching. Remove any faded or damaged leaves to maintain appearance.

Training

• Trellis: Guide stems upward and secure gently with plant ties.
• Moss pole: Anchor stems to a moss pole to encourage vertical growth and denser foliage.
• Trailing: Allow stems to cascade naturally from hanging baskets or elevated shelves.

Propagation

Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Tricolor’ is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Using clean, sharp scissors or pruners, cut a 4–6 inch (10–15 cm) stem just below a node.
2. Remove the lower leaves, leaving at least one or two nodes bare.
3. Water method: Place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring nodes are submerged. Change water every few days until roots are 1–2 inches long.
4. Soil method: Insert the cutting into moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep soil lightly moist until new growth appears.
5. Once rooted, pot up into a suitable container and care for as a mature plant.

Common Problems

Pests

• Spider mites: Look for fine webbing and stippled leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Aphids: Found on new growth; rinse off with water or apply horticultural oil.
• Mealybugs: White, cottony masses on stems and leaves; remove manually and treat with insecticidal soap.

Diseases

• Root rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Remove affected roots and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
• Leaf spot: Fungal or bacterial; remove affected leaves and improve air circulation.

Toxicity & Pet Safety

Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Tricolor’ is considered toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets if ingested. It may cause oral irritation and gastrointestinal upset. Keep out of reach of pets and children.

Styling & Decor Tips

• Use in hanging baskets to showcase its trailing habit and colorful foliage.
• Place on high shelves or plant stands for a cascading effect.
• Combine with solid green plants for contrast in mixed arrangements.
• Highlight pink tones by pairing with complementary-colored pots.

Varieties & Cultivars

While ‘Tricolor’ is a distinct cultivar of Tradescantia fluminensis, other related varieties include:

• Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Variegata’: Green and white leaves without pink.
• Tradescantia zebrina: Purple and silver-striped foliage, similar care needs.
• Tradescantia pallida: Deep purple foliage, often called Purple Heart.

Buying Tips & Maturity

When purchasing, select plants with vibrant, well-defined variegation and no signs of pests or disease. Avoid specimens with limp stems or yellowing leaves. Mature plants will have multiple trailing stems and dense foliage; younger plants may appear sparser but will fill out quickly under good care.

Seasonal Care

• Spring/Summer: Active growth period; increase watering frequency, fertilize regularly, and prune to shape.
• Fall/Winter: Growth slows; reduce watering and feeding. Maintain minimum temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
• Year-round: Monitor for pests, especially in warm indoor environments.

FAQ

• How fast does Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Tricolor’ grow?
  Under optimal light and care, it can produce several inches of new growth per month during the growing season.
• Can it grow outdoors?
  Yes, in frost-free climates (USDA zones 9–12) it can be grown outdoors in shaded to partially shaded areas.
• Why is my plant losing its pink color?
  Likely due to insufficient light; move to a brighter, indirect location.
• How often should I prune?
  Prune lightly every few weeks during active growth to encourage bushiness and control length.
• Is misting necessary?
  Not essential, but occasional misting can help in dry indoor environments to support humidity.