T.E.R:R.A.I.N - Taranaki Educational Resource: Research, Analysis and Information Network

Wandering Jew

Kingdom: Plantae
(unranked): Angiosperms
(unranked): Monocots
(unranked): Commelinids
Order: Commelinales
Family: Commelinaceae 
Genus: Tradescantia
Species: T. fluminensis 
Binomial name Tradescantia fluminensis
Common names: River Spiderwort Small-Leaf Spiderwort Inch Plant , Wandering Jew, Wandering Willie

General description: Hairless, succulent creeping plant <50cm tall. Alternate, oval, shining leaves form a sheath around stem. Clusters of white star-shaped flowers (Aug-Nov).
Habitats: Streams, alluvial flats, lowland forests, coastal areas, damp shrublands, wetland margins. Prefers cool, moist, shaded conditions.
Dispersal: .T. fluminensis is considered an invasive species, noxious weed, or pest plant and is consequently targeted for eradication. The seriously invasive qualities of T. fluminensis result from a combination of attributes. Forming a dense mat underneath forest tree cover (facilitated by a remarkable shade tolerance), it smothers ground-level plants and prevents the natural regeneration of taller species; if left unchecked, it can lead to the destruction of native forests. Even where the climate does not permit T. fluminensis to take root, it still can spread rapidly from being transported by animals and humans. It does not set seed in New Zealand. Succulent stems break off & root easily & are dispersed by water, animals, people, & machinery.

Wandering Jew on a vertical bank


Wandering Jew leaves

Wandering Jew Flower

 

 

 


 

 


 


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