Small-leaf spiderwort - Tradescantia fluminensis (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Small-leaf spiderwort

Also known as: Wandering Trad, Speedy Henry, Inch plant, Giant White Inch plant

Tradescantia fluminensis is a ground cover plant that is most commonly found as a houseplant. This plant has oval leaves that are dark green and glossy. It will root anywhere a node is on the surface, which earns it some of its other common names, like wandering Willie and wandering gypsy.

Scientific classification

Species

Small-leaf spiderwort (Tradescantia fluminensis)

Spiderworts and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

60 cm

Plant Height

23 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Purple

Leaf Color

1.3 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green, White, Purple, Pink, Cream

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Small-leaf spiderwort

Distribution of Small-leaf spiderwort

Distribution Map

Small-leaf spiderwort is native to South America and is cultivated in various regions for its ornamental appeal. With a prolific presence across continents, small-leaf spiderwort thrives in temperate and subtropical areas. Although it is considered an asset in gardens, small-leaf spiderwort can sometimes be thought to be challenging in certain areas where it may have an impact on local ecosystems, notably in some oceanic regions. Despite this, its cultivation continues, and the plant maintains a broad introduced range in the northern and southern hemispheres.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Planting small-leaf spiderwort in a hanging container or basket is a great way to showcase its trailing qualities. It is best planted with a lot of space, because it can overrun other plants too easily. Many gardeners choose to keep this one contained in a pot, and use it to compliment plants with plainer foliage by setting their separate containers close together.

Symbolism

Immortality, optimism, moral authority

Interesting Facts

Small-leaf spiderwort, or Tradescantia fluminensis, has at times been called Wandering Jew. This is a reference to the classic French novel written in 1845. The story is about the cholera epidemic. Wherever the wandering Jew goes, the cholera epidemic follows him. The story is tragic, and although the plant makes a lovely houseplant, it is considered an invasive weed in some areas.

Name Story

Small-leaf spiderwort: The plant is given the name spiderwort because the angular leaf arrangement suggests a squatting spider. Tiny, three-petaled, white flowers bloom throughout the year in its native habitat. However, the plant infrequently appears as an indoor plant. The leaf nodes along the stem are purportedly one inch apart, so it is called small-leaf spiderwort.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Small-leaf spiderwort, including the following common varieties :

Inch plant Inch plant Aurea Wandering Jew Inch plant 'Maiden's Blush'

Toxicity

Small-leaf spiderworts are mildly to moderately toxic to cats. Its sap causes dermatological or gastrointestinal irritation, leading to redness, itching, vomiting, or diarrhea. Small-leaf spiderwort is mildly toxic to dogs, causing mainly dermatological issues like bumps or pustules. Most symptoms subside if the plant is removed, but strong reactions may require veterinary care.

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Quickly Identify Small-leaf spiderwort

Oval leaves with pointed tips, 2.5-3.5 inches (6.5-9 cm) long, cluster and trail elegantly.

Small white flowers under 1 inch (2.5 cm), three equal delicate petals, and boat-shaped bracts.

Smooth, ovate-oblong leaves, green upper surface, purplish undersides, distinctive vein pattern.

Slender green stems, ascending or trailing growth, nodes spaced 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart, rooting.

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Care Guide for Small-leaf spiderwort

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from South America's humid, shaded regions, small-leaf spiderwort thrives in consistent moisture without waterlogging. Weekly watering meets its moderate needs. As an evergreen indoor plant, it flourishes with higher humidity levels, enhancing its lush foliage and overall health.

Fertilize: Apply high nitrogen fertilizer monthly during the growing season for small-leaf spiderwort, using half the recommended dose indoors. Reduce to every 6-8 weeks in winter. Water before fertilizing to prevent root shock, and incorporate fertilizer into regular watering to avoid leaf burn and ensure healthy growth.

Pruning: Small-leaf spiderwort features small, glossy leaves and thrives with regular pruning in early to late spring, enhancing its bushiness and preventing invasiveness. Removing dead stems and pinching new growth improves air circulation and reduces disease risk. Always use clean, sharp tools for pruning.

Propagation: Small-leaf spiderwort thrives with lush foliage and propagates easily through cuttings. Place stem segments with a leaf node in water or moist soil for quick root establishment and new growth. Keep cuttings short and maintain humidity for optimal growth conditions.

Repotting: Repot small-leaf spiderwort every 2-3 years in spring, using a slightly larger pot to prevent root crowding. Post-repotting, offer indirect light and maintain moist soil to support recovery, ensuring small-leaf spiderwort's resilience and flourishing growth.

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Images of Small-leaf spiderwort

Distribution of Small-leaf spiderwort

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Small-leaf spiderwort

Care Guide for Small-leaf spiderwort

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