Inch plant care guide
Tradescantia zebrina
Also known as: Zebrina pendula, Silver inch plant
Pets and children
Caution advised
The sap can irritate skin and mouth and cause mild stomach upset in pets, so keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if it is eaten.
How often to water Inch plant
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 4 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil dries, as a guide; it takes some drought, but going too dry browns the lower leaves.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 6 days
- Drying slows, so generally water a day or two after the surface dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Water sparingly about three to four days after the soil dries, and even less in a room near 5°C.
Light and placement for Inch plant
Bright light keeps the purple and silver vivid: a sheer-curtained window to morning sun is about right, shade turns it green and leggy, and midsummer sun is best avoided.
Overwintering Inch plant
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
It takes down to about 5°C, so a bright window indoors is enough; water lightly, keep it off frost, and cut back damaged stems in spring.
Fertilizing and repotting Inch plant
Fertilizer
Diluted liquid fertilizer about twice a month from May to September; too much dulls the color and makes it leggy, and none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Inch plant
- The stems grow long and bare at the base.
- In a dark spot the purple fades to green.
- Overwatering in winter rots the stems.
Tips for growing Inch plant
- Cuttings root in days in water or soil, so restart the plant regularly.
- Pinching the tips makes it branch and fill out.
- The sap can irritate skin, so wash your hands after pruning.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
