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). Habitat Tradescantia zebrina is native to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia, but can also be found on the Caribbean islands. It is naturalized in parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, South America, and various oceanic islands. The plant grows in thickets in the wetland and rainforest, often on stones in shady and open areas or on river banks at altitudes of 2000 meters or below, but mainly at lower altitudes. Cultivation It is commonly available and used as a houseplant and groundcover, aggressively colonizing new areas when left undisturbed. Propagated by cuttings, this plant can be moved or manipulated easily as its runners cling lightly to the ground (if used as cover). It tends to become an invasive species if not properly maintained. The plant is not frost-resistant but can be kept indoors during the winter months in colder climates. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9, 10 and 11. The species, and the cultivars 'Purpusii' and 'Quadricolor' have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Invasiveness It is classified as a Category 1b Invasive Species in South Africa, and thus may no longer be planted or propagated. All trade in seeds, cuttings or other propagative material is prohibited. It may not be transported or be allowed to disperse, either in rural or urban areas. It is also an invasive species in the Galápagos Islands. Varieties Tradescantia zebrina var. flocculosa (G.Brückn.) D.R.Hunt - tropical Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras Tradescantia zebrina var. mollipila D.R.Hunt - tropical Mexico Tradescantia zebrina var. zebrina - most of Mexico from north to south, Central America, Colombia References External links Standard Data Report: Tradescantia zebrina - Integrated Taxonomic Information System 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 Tradescantia zebrina - WikiSpecies page zebrina Flora of Mexico Flora of Central America Flora of Colombia Medicinal plants Garden plants House plants Groundcovers Plants described in 1753 Taxa named by Carl Linnaeus