The plant commonly known as “Wandering Jew” is a popular, fast-growing houseplant or ground cover recognized for its attractive, colorful foliage. This common name refers to several resilient and easily propagated species within the genus Tradescantia, which belongs to the spiderwort family (Commelinaceae). Native to the Americas, these plants are widely cultivated globally.
Physical Traits and Species Diversity
Plants in the Tradescantia genus are defined by their trailing or creeping growth habit, making them ideal for hanging baskets. They possess fleshy, slightly succulent stems that easily root at the nodes when contacting soil. The leaves are typically oval or lance-shaped, arranged alternately along the stem, and often feature a distinctive clasping base.
The most common species referred to by the outdated common name are Tradescantia zebrina and Tradescantia fluminensis. T. zebrina, often called Inchplant or Silver Inch Plant, has vibrant, zebra-patterned foliage: bluish-green leaves with silvery stripes above and a deep magenta underside. T. fluminensis, or Small-Leaf Spiderwort, typically has oval, dark-green leaves and is known for its dense, mat-forming growth. Both species produce small, delicate, three-petaled flowers, usually white or lavender-purple, though they bloom infrequently indoors.
Understanding the Controversial Common Name
The name “Wandering Jew” is now widely considered outdated and offensive due to its origin in European folklore and connection to anti-Semitism. The name derives from a medieval legend, popularized in the 13th century, about a Jewish man cursed to wander the Earth after taunting Jesus during the crucifixion. The plant received this name because its vigorous, trailing stems appear to “wander” and root easily across the ground.
Modern horticultural practice discourages the use of this common name to avoid perpetuating language rooted in religious prejudice. Alternative, non-problematic common names are now preferred, such as Inchplant, Wandering Dude, or Silver Inch Plant, which reference the plant’s appearance or growth habit. Using the scientific name, Tradescantia, is the most precise and universally accepted method of identification.
Cultivation Requirements and Maintenance
For successful indoor growth, Tradescantia species require bright, indirect light to maintain the vibrancy of their colorful foliage. Insufficient light causes the stems to become “leggy,” stretching toward the light source, and the colorful variegation to fade. Direct, intense sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the delicate leaves.
These plants prefer consistently moist, but not saturated, soil during their active growing season from spring through fall. A well-draining, peat-based potting mix is recommended, as soggy conditions quickly lead to root rot. Watering should be reduced in the winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
The plants thrive in indoor temperatures of 60–75°F (15–24°C) and benefit from higher humidity, though they tolerate average household levels. To encourage a fuller, denser appearance, the trailing stems should be regularly pinched back or pruned.
How the Plant Spreads and Its Invasive Nature
The rapid spread of Tradescantia allows the plant to quickly form dense mats, with new plants readily developing wherever a stem segment rests on moist soil. The fleshy stems break easily, and even tiny fragments created during pruning or disturbance can establish new colonies.
This aggressive growth habit has led to certain species, particularly T. fluminensis and T. zebrina, being classified as invasive weeds worldwide. In regions like Australia, New Zealand, and the southeastern United States, these plants escape cultivation and smother native ground-level flora, preventing natural regeneration. The dense, light-blocking carpet they create is an environmental concern. The plant’s sap also contains low-severity irritants, such as calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause skin irritation or dermatitis upon contact.