Origin
Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier, also known as Tradescantia fluminensis 'Quadricolor', is a tropical plant that originates from South America. It is most commonly found in Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.
Common Names
Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier is commonly referred to as the "Quadricolor Wandering Jew" or "Wandering Dude." It may also be known as "Rainbow River" due to its colorful foliage.
Appearance
The Quadricolor Wandering Jew has long, trailing vines that can grow up to 3 feet in length. The leaves are elliptical in shape, and are green with white and pink stripes. The undersides of the leaves are a deep purple color. The small, three-petaled flowers are pink or white and bloom in the summer.
Uses
Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier is a popular ornamental plant that is often used in hanging baskets or as ground cover in a garden. It is also known for its air-purifying abilities, making it a great addition to any home or office environment. In some cultures, the plant is used for medicinal purposes, as it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Light Requirements
Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier grows best in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's best to place them near a window that receives filtered light or in a shaded area of your garden. If grown indoors, a north or east-facing window works well for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier prefers to grow in temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It's important to avoid placing this plant in areas that experience drastic temperature changes, like near drafty windows or doors. The ideal temperature range will help the plant grow and thrive.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier are well-draining and fertile soil. Choose a potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite for better drainage. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil (pH between 5.5-6.5). If planting outside, make sure the soil is light, well-draining, and fertile.
Cultivation methods
Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier, commonly known as Spiderwort, is a perennial plant that is easy to grow. The plant thrives in well-drained soil and moderate temperatures. It can be propagated through division or cuttings. Division is the most common method used for propagation.
Watering needs
Spiderwort plants prefer moderate watering. It is essential to ensure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. The plant roots should not sit in standing water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is harmful to the plant.
Fertilization
Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer once every month during the growing season, which is from spring to summer. The fertilizer should be applied at half strength to avoid burning the plant roots.
Pruning
Spiderwort plants require minimal pruning. You can remove dead or yellow leaves as they appear. Overgrown plants can be cut back to the ground level in late fall or early spring to encourage new growth. The plant's stems tend to become leggy if they're not pruned regularly.
Propagation of Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier
Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier is a beautiful flowering plant that can be propagated with ease. Here we will discuss different methods of propagation of this plant.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are a popular way to propagate Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier. Cut a 2- to 3-inch-long piece of stem that has at least two or three leaves. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder and plant it into a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it moist. Within a few weeks, roots will start to develop, and the cutting will grow into a new plant.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division is also an effective way to propagate Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier. Remove the plant from its pot and shake off excess soil. Gently separate the plant into sections, making sure to keep the roots intact. Each section should have at least one stem and several leaves. Plant each new section into a pot filled with well-draining soil, water it, and keep it moist until it establishes roots.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds can also be used to propagate Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier. Collect mature seeds from the plant's flower and sow them in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep it moist. Place the pot in a warm and bright location. The seedlings will begin to sprout within a few weeks, and once they are large enough to handle, transplant them into their pots for further growth.
Disease Management
Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Bacterial Blight: This disease is characterized by the formation of water-soaked spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown. To manage bacterial blight, it's essential to remove the affected areas and use clean tools to prevent the spread of the disease. Applying copper fungicides can also help control bacterial blight.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot causes circular or irregular-shaped spots on the plant's leaves. These spots can be brown, black, or yellow, depending on the severity of the disease. To manage leaf spot, remove affected areas and avoid overcrowding plants to improve air circulation. You can also use fungicides to control leaf spot.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease characterized by rusty-colored spots or powdery growth on the plant's leaves. To manage rust, remove the affected leaves and provide adequate air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to control rust.
Pest Management
Tradescantia pedicellata Celarier is vulnerable to pest infestations, including:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's leaves, causing discoloration and even death in severe cases. To manage spider mites, regularly spray the plant with water, use insecticidal soap, or neem oil. In severe infestations, you may need to treat the plant with a miticide.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to wilt and yellow. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. You can also use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil to control aphids.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that congregate in clusters on the plant's leaves. These pests secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and causes black mold to develop on the plant's leaves. To manage mealybugs, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the pests. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control mealybugs.
