Tradescantia zebrina, formerly known as Zebrina pendula, is a species of spiderwort more commonly known as Wandering Jew, a name shared with closely related varieties T. fluminensis and T. pallida. Commonly available and used as a houseplant, T. zebrina has attractive zebra-patterned leaves, the upper surface showing purple new growth and green older growth parallel to the central axis, as well as two broad silver-colored stripes on the outer edges, with the lower leaf surface presenting a deep uniform magenta. Propagated by leaf cuttings, this plant can can be moved or manipulated easily as its runners cling lightly to the ground (if used as cover). Unfortunately, skin irritation may result from repeated contact with or prolonged handling of the plant - particularly from the clear, watery sap (a characteristic unique to T. zebrina as compared with the other aforementioned types) - and it tends to become invasive if not properly maintained.

Uses

Is commonly used in southeast Mexico in the region of Tabasco, as a cold tea, which is named Matali.

External links

• Standard Data Report: Tradescantia zebrina - Integrated Taxonomic Information System
• PLANTS Profile: Tradescantia zebrina - National Resources Conservation Service (US Department of Agriculture)
• Taxonomy Browser: Tradescantia zebrina - National Center for Biotechnology Information (US National Institutes of Health)
• Desert Tropicals - Informational database on common gardening plants, based out of Phoenix, Arizona, USA
• Dave's Garden - Community website for home gardeners providing supplies, techniques, and discussion forums.