[4] Tradescantia 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.

When chronically exposed to long periods of intense sunlight, the variegation fades and the leaf becomes purple throughout.

The low-lying, slightly succulent, perennial, herbaceous plant often forms dense mats or colonies.

The structure of the flower—usually from the three pink petals and the white sexual organs—is similar to that of the other Tradescantia, but unlike what happens in those, the plant branches off thanks to new buds whose attachment starts below that of the leaf (and not above).The flowers are in groups, supported by two large foliage-like, narrow, ciliate bracts.

[5] 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).

Tradescantia zebrina is native to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia, but can also be found on the Caribbean islands.

Propagated by cuttings, this plant can be moved or manipulated easily as its runners cling lightly to the ground (if used as cover).