Genus guide
Tradescantia — 22 species
Part of the Spiderworts & inch plants family (Commelinaceae)
Tradescantia is a fast-growing genus of trailing and clumping perennials beloved for vivid leaf color, from the purple-flushed Wandering Dude and inch plant to the pastel-striped 'Nanouk' and the bold Purple Heart. They flourish in bright indirect light and reward more sun with deeper foliage color, though they tolerate lower light. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, avoiding soggy conditions. All Tradescantia species are toxic to cats and dogs — their sap causes dermatitis and gastrointestinal irritation — so keep them well out of reach.
All Tradescantia species we cover
- Bracted Spiderwort
- Inch Plant
- Inch Plant 'Nanouk'
- Long-stalked Spiderwort
- Moses in the Cradle
- Moses-in-the-Cradle (Oyster Plant)
- Ohio Spiderwort
- Purple Heart
- Purple Heart
- Rhoeo Spathacea 'Tricolor'
- Tradescantia 'Bubblegum'
- Tradescantia 'Lilac'
- Tradescantia 'Lilac'
- Tradescantia 'Nanouk'
- Tradescantia blossfeldiana
- Tradescantia fluminensis 'Tricolor'
- Tradescantia fluminensis 'Variegata'
- Tradescantia mundula
- Tradescantia Navicularis
- Tradescantia Sillamontana
- Tradescantia Zebrina 'Quadricolor'
- Wandering dude
Tradescantia — frequently asked questions
Are Tradescantia plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Tradescantia are not pet-safe. Of the 22 Tradescantia species in the Growli library, 22 (100%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 0 are pet-safe. Always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.
How much light do Tradescantia plants need?
Most Tradescantia do best in bright indirect light. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Tradescantia easy to care for?
Tradescantia are moderate to grow: the main requirement is a genuinely bright spot out of harsh midday sun. Get the light right and the rest of their care follows.
How many Tradescantia varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 22 Tradescantia species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Tradescantia, the rest follow closely.
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