Appearance and growth habit
Tradescantia zebrina is a fast-growing trailing plant with attractive striped leaves in shades of green, silver and purple. Its cascading growth makes it ideal for hanging pots, shelves, terrariums and tropical displays, where it can quickly create a lush, filled-in look. It grows enthusiastically, so regular trimming may be required unless you fancy letting it take over the neighbourhood.
 
Care requirements
Provide bright, indirect light for the best leaf colour and strong growth, although it can tolerate lower light. Water when the top of the growing medium begins to dry, while avoiding constantly soggy soil. It enjoys moderate humidity but is generally adaptable and easy-going, making it a good choice for beginners.
 
Troubleshooting
Faded colouring or stretched, sparse growth usually means the plant needs more light. Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, while crispy leaves may result from letting the plant become too dry. If it becomes leggy, simply trim the stems back to encourage fuller growth. Tradescantia roots readily from cuttings, so propagation is wonderfully easy.
 
Pet and reptile safety
Tradescantia zebrina is considered mildly toxic to cats and dogs and may cause skin irritation or stomach upset if eaten. It is therefore not the best choice for pets that like to chew plants. It is also not recommended as a reptile-safe plant for enclosures where reptiles may regularly nibble or ingest the foliage. For animal enclosures, choose plants specifically regarded as safe and use pesticide-free specimens.