Tradescantia zebrina

Tradescantia zebrina, more commonly known as spiderwort, is an herbaceous perennial groundcover plant native to parts of South America, the Caribbean, and Mexico.  Spiderwort is prized for its unique foliage, which has stripes of pigmentation in green, silver, and purple across the length of the pointed elliptical leaves.  Petite, pink, three-petalled blooms will dot the creeping foliage year-round, though they are not very numerous and easily go unnoticed.  Typically, spiderwort plants are grown as houseplants, but they also make wonderful groundcover plants, especially around the base of large trees.  Due to their fast growth rate and creeping habit, spiderwort can spread to unwanted areas quickly if left unchecked, leading them to be considered invasive in many areas.  Keep spiderwort out of the reach of pets and children, and handle it with gloves, as its clear toxic sap can cause inflammation of the skin.  

Bright, indirect sunlight is ideal for growing spiderwort, with a well-lit window or a location that is only shielded from the harshest midday sun being favorable.  A sign your plant is not receiving enough light and requires relocation is if its foliage begins to fade in color or variegation.  Well-draining potting soil is best for growing spiderwort in containers, or a garden mix for outdoor plants, especially with a little added sand for enhanced drainage.  Water once per week during the growing season and closer to once every two weeks during the fall and winter months.  When the top few inches of soil have dried out, it is time to water.  Feeding is not necessary with spiderwort, especially because overfertilizing can result in a loss of the foliage's variegation.  Learn more in the Plant Story community!  

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water moderately, allowing the top 3cm to dry out between watering.

Tradescantia Zebrina

Tradescantia zebrina

Gallery

Share With Your Friends

How to Grow

Characteristics

Benefits

Ornamental

Attracts

Warning

More Info

Taxonomy