
Light Needs

Mature Height

Mature Spread

Feature
Rainbow Tradescantia (Tradescantia fluminensis laekenensis 'Rainbow'), also known as Rainbow Inch Plant or Wandering Jew, is a bright trailing plant cherished for its colorful foliage. The leaves display an enchanting mix of deep green, pink, and cream stripes, bringing a splash of color to any indoor setting. Perfect for hanging baskets or shelves, this easy-to-grow plant adds visual interest with its cascading vines and lively hues. Its adaptability and low-maintenance nature make this plant an excellent choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Best Locations For Growing Rainbow Tradescantia
Rainbow Tradescantia grows well in living rooms, bedrooms, or kitchens where it can receive ample indirect light. Its trailing habit makes it ideal for hanging planters or high shelves, allowing the colorful foliage to cascade gracefully. Keep in mind that this plant is toxic to pets if ingested, so it should be placed out of reach of cats and dogs.
Rainbow Tradescantia Sunlight Requirements
This plant prefers bright indirect light to maintain its lovely variegation. Position it near an east or north-facing window, or use sheer curtains to filter sunlight from south or west-facing windows. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves, and low-light conditions, which may cause the colors to fade.
Rainbow Tradescantia Care
Plant Rainbow Tradescantia in a well-draining potting mix enriched with perlite and organic matter like worm castings. Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Prune the stems regularly to encourage fuller growth and prevent legginess. Average household humidity is sufficient, but the plant benefits from occasional misting or being grouped with other plants.
Watering Rainbow Tradescantia
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering. Water thoroughly until excess drains from the bottom, but avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering may cause leaf tips to brown. Adjust watering frequency based on the season, reducing slightly during winter months.
Feeding Rainbow Tradescantia
Fertilize during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Feed every four to six weeks to promote healthy growth and bright foliage. Suspend fertilization during fall and winter when the plant's growth slows naturally.
Rainbow Tradescantia Information
USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 - 11 |
Plant Type: |
Light Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun (At Least 3 Hours Of Direct Sunlight) |
Mature Height: 6 - 12 Inches |
Mature Spread: 1 - 1.5 Feet |
Spacing: 6 - 12 Inches |
Habit: Spreading, Trailing |
Flower Color(s): White |
Flower Description: Pinkish Hue |
Bloom Period: Spring to Summer |
Foliage Type: Evergreen |
Foliage Color(s): Green |
Foliage Description: green |
Seasonal Interest: Spring Flowering, Summer Flowering, Fall Interest, 3 Season Interest |
Watering: moderate |
Resists: Disease |
Tolerates: Heat |
Attracts: N/A |
Container Role: Spiller |
Uses: Borders, Combinations, Containers, Edging, Erosion Control, Groundcovers, Hanging Baskets, Mass Planting, Specimen or Focal Point, Sensory Gardens |
Features: Cut Flowers, Deadheading Not Necessary, Foliage Interest, Low Maintenance |
Brand: Plant Addicts - HP |
Common Name: Rainbow Tradescantia |
Other Name(s): Moses-in-the-Cradle |
Scientific Name: Tradescantia spathacea |
- SKU:
- 12364938-AS
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.

Also Known As:
Mini pot
Plant Age:
~ 2-6 months
Plant Size:
~ 2"-4"
Pot Size:
~ 1.9"H x 2"W
Volume:
~ .012-0.15 quarts

Also Known As:
Small pot
Plant Age:
~ 3-6 months
Plant Size:
~ 2"-6"
Pot Size:
~ 2.5"H x 3"W
Volume:
~ 0.3 quarts

Also Known As:
Quart pot
Plant Age:
~ 6 months
Plant Size:
~ 5"-10"
Pot Size:
~ 3.5"H x 4"W
Volume:
~ 0.75 quarts

Also Known As:
#1 Container
1 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 6-12 months
Plant Size:
~ 8"-16"
Pot Size:
~ 5"H x 6"W
Volume:
1.5 quarts

Also Known As:
Large pot
Plant Age:
~ 1-2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-24"
Pot Size:
~ 6"H x 8"W
Volume:
~ 3 quarts

Also Known As:
'
Plant Age:
~ 2-3 years
Plant Size:
~ 16"-36"
Pot Size:
~ 7.25"H x 10”W
Volume:
~ 4.5-5 quarts

We stand behind our plants with industry-leading guarantees to give you peace of mind.
We want your plants to arrive in great condition! If you notice any issues upon delivery, contact us within 3 days.
All houseplants come with an extended 30-day warranty for added confidence. If your plant dies due to a health issue within 30 days, we’ll make it right.

All of our houseplants typically ship within 2-3 business days after your order is placed.
Plant Addicts ships to the lower 48 states within the U.S. Unfortunately, we do not currently ship to Alaska, Hawaii, or internationally.
If you have any questions about shipping restrictions, feel free to reach out to our team!