Cobweb Spiderwort (Tradescantia)

Tradescantia (Spiderwort) is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants in the Western Hemisphere (New World) in temperate and subtropical areas.

Preferred growing conditions:

• Plant in most soil types including clay.
• Best positioned in a full to partial shade locations.
• Mulch with common mulch materials in dry Western climates. Leave un-mulched in moister Eastern climates.
• Water regularly the first growing season to establish the plant. Most species and varieties like moderately moist soil and should receive regular irrigation in arid climates. Rainfall is generally sufficient in moist Eastern climates.
• Deadheading is not needed.
• Fertilize lightly in the fall with a half and half mix of Yum Yum Mix and good quality compost.

Special comments:

• Plants are generally morning bloomers and close in the heat of afternoon on sunny days.
• If plants become scraggly after blooming is done, cut back to the ground and they will re-grow healthy foliage in late summer.
• Cut back plants in late fall. If cut back during the previous summer, wait until mid-spring to cut plants back to the ground.
• Tradescantia sillamontana is a xeric, slow growing groundcover that grows on succulent underground roots. The plants can be divided in mid-spring if additional plants are desired. Otherwise leave undisturbed. Selectively cut back any stems with winter kill, but don't cut back the entire plant.