How to Grow Spiderwort, Red-Leaved
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Spiderwort, Red-Leaved
Tradescantia pallida
flowerTradescantia pallida, commonly called red-leaved spiderwort or wandering Jew, is a tender perennial houseplant prized for its vibrant burgundy to deep purple foliage. It produces small, delicate pink or purple flowers and is valued equally for its striking foliage as for its blooms. This trailing plant is easy to grow and makes an excellent choice for hanging baskets, containers, or ground cover in warm climates.
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Example Spiderwort, Red-Leaved timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Spiderwort, Red-Leaved
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Spiderwort, Red-Leaved blooms
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Spiderwort, Red-Leaved dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives outdoors in zones 10-11; grown as houseplant or annual in cooler zones
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Get my Spiderwort, Red-Leaved timeline →Growth Stages
Propagation & Rooting
1-3 weeksStem cuttings develop roots in water or moist soil; tiny white root nodules appear within 1-2 weeks
Keep water or soil warm (65-75°F); change water every few days if rooting in water; avoid high humidity which causes rot
Vegetative Growth
3-6 weeks after rootingNew leaves emerge rapidly along trailing stems; foliage deepens from green to rich burgundy-purple with bright indirect light
Pinch growing tips regularly to encourage bushier growth; increase light intensity to deepen red coloration; fertilize every 2-3 weeks with balanced fertilizer
Flowering
Continuous spring through fallDelicate small flowers (pink, purple, or occasionally white) appear in leaf axils; flowers are short-lived but continuous throughout growing season
Maintain consistent moisture and bright light; deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms; reduce fertilizer nitrogen ratio if desired (use balanced or slightly higher phosphorus)
Maintenance & Pruning
OngoingStems continue to grow and trail; plant may become leggy or overgrown if not maintained
Prune back straggly growth regularly; remove any stems reverting to green foliage if cultivating pure red varieties; refresh soil or repot annually
Winter Rest (Dormancy)
3-4 monthsGrowth slows significantly in cool, low-light conditions; foliage may lose some vibrancy
Reduce watering and feeding; provide warmth (minimum 55°F); maintain bright light; this plant does not truly go dormant but grows slowly
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity; mist foliage regularly; isolate infested plant
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with insecticidal soap; repeat weekly as needed
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Scrape off manually; treat with horticultural oil or neem oil; monitor closely for reinfestation
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Allow soil surface to dry between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply BTi (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) to soil if severe
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; use yellow sticky traps; isolate plant; increase air circulation
Uses
Indoor Air Purification
HouseholdTradescantia species help filter indoor air by absorbing formaldehyde and other airborne toxins. It is listed among NASA's recommended houseplants for air-purifying properties. [source]
Hanging Basket & Trailing Displays
CraftThe trailing habit and vibrant red-purple foliage make Tradescantia pallida ideal for hanging planters, wall sconces, and cascading arrangements. Its colorful vines add dynamic visual interest to living spaces. [source]
Edible Garnish & Tea
CulinaryTradescantia flowers and leaves are technically edible and occasionally used as colorful garnishes in gourmet cuisine. Some cultures brew it as a mild herbal tea, though culinary use remains uncommon. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalIn folk medicine, particularly in Central and South American herbalism, Tradescantia species have been used to support urinary and digestive health. Modern scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe small flowers attract bees and other pollinators when grown outdoors in warm zones, providing a nectar source in gardens and landscape settings. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not a harvest plant; prune stems anytime during growing season for propagation or to control shape. Take 3-4 inch cuttings just below a node; these root easily in water or moist soil. Pinch off flower buds if foliage is the primary goal.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Wandering Jew' (or 'Inch Plant') refers to the rapid, sprawling growth habit and the plant's ease of propagation; a single cutting can establish roots in just days.
- 🌱 Tradescantia pallida's deep red-purple color intensifies with brighter light exposure, making it possible to manipulate leaf intensity by adjusting light conditions—a technique used by houseplant enthusiasts.
- 🌱 This plant is nearly indestructible and is often recommended as an ideal starter houseplant for beginners; it tolerates neglect, low light, and irregular watering better than most ornamental plants.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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