Spiderworts

Spiderworts, belonging to the genus Tradescantia, are a group of herbaceous perennial plants known for their distinctive three-petaled flowers and grass-like leaves. Native to the Americas, these plants are widely cultivated in gardens and are also found growing wild in various habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and disturbed areas. The common name "spiderwort" is thought to refer to the way their thin, somewhat juicy stems, when broken, exude a stringy, spider-web-like sap.

The flowers of spiderworts typically appear in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white and are often produced in clusters. They are generally ephemeral, meaning they may only open for a single day, often closing up in the afternoon or with the onset of hot weather. Despite their short-lived individual blooms, many spiderwort varieties produce flowers prolifically over an extended period during the warmer months. The plant's foliage is also a notable characteristic, with long, slender leaves that grow in a basal rosette or alternate along the stem.

Spiderworts are generally hardy and adaptable, tolerating a range of soil conditions and light levels, though they often perform best in moist, well-drained soil with partial shade. They are propagated easily through division of their root clumps or from stem cuttings. Some species are considered invasive in certain regions due to their vigorous growth habits and ability to spread readily. Common garden varieties include Tradescantia andersoniana hybrids.