spiderwort
Tradescantia (Andersoniana Group) 'Sweet Kate'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Stem Propagation,Leaf Cutting,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 9
Flowers:
Purplish-blue Flowers
Sun:
full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
silver,green,purple
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Indoors:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Spiderwort needs to be watered on a regular basis, but not too often. It's best to water the plant whenever the soil begins to feel dry to the touch, usually once every 1-2 weeks. If the soil is kept consistently moist, roots may rot and the plant can become unhealthy. In general, it's best to water the plant until the soil is evenly moist, but not soggy. Make sure to let excess water drain away after each watering. During the summer months, the plant may need to be watered more frequently than in cooler times of the year. If you notice the leaves of the spiderwort wilting or bending inwards, this is a sign the plant needs more water. For optimal health, it's best to water the plant in the mornings or early afternoons.
sunlight
Spiderwort (Tradescantia (Andersoniana Group) 'Sweet Kate') prefers sunny locations and plenty of light as long as the sun isn't too harsh or drying. This plant thrives in sites that receive at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, with morning or afternoon sun being best. It can also tolerate some light shade or partial shade, making it an ideal choice for a north-facing window or balcony. With an understanding of the level of light needed, it is important to provide the optimal conditions for Spiderwort to create an ideal environment for its growth.
pruning
Spiderwort should be pruned in the early spring when new growth starts to appear. If grown in a specific shape, pruning should take place as new growth begins and until the desired shape is achieved. Prune vigorously, removing any dead leaves or stems, but try to leave some foliage on the plant to help it stay strong. If the plant has become overgrown, pruning it too much can actually help provide more flowers and a tidier appearance.
FAQ
Do spiderwort plants require a specific soil type?
Spiderwort plants generally grow best in soils that are rich in organic matter and have good drainage. Sandy soils with a pH of 6-7 and plenty of added compost or manure are ideal for spiderwort. Spiderwort can tolerate poor soils, but optimal growth will be achieved in softer, loamy soils with more organic content. It is important to avoid overly wet soils as this can cause root rot or other problems with the plant.
Do spiderwort plants have any unique growth patterns?
Spiderwort plants have a unique growth pattern, called "spiderlings," where many small, baby-like plants grow out of the stems, just above the soil line. As the baby plants get bigger, they drop off and take root on their own. This helps the parent plant spread and propagate quickly and easily. Spiderworts also have pointed leaves with veins that run in a web-like pattern which is quite unique.
Are spiderwort flowers fragrant?
No, spiderwort flowers are not typically fragrant. The flowers have a small, star-like shape and can be found in a variety of colors, including purple, white and lavender. The flowers are known for their long-lasting beauty, but are not typically considered to be fragrant.
Could spiderwort be used as a border plant in a garden?
Yes, spiderwort can be used as a border plant in a garden. These bright and vibrant plants make ideal borders because they can grow up to two feet in height and have a mound-like shape. Additionally, when the purplish-blue flowers bloom, they create a stunning effect that attracts pollinators and beautifies any garden. Spiderwort is also known to be a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of soil and lighting conditions, which makes it an ideal choice for garden borders.
Could spiderwort be grown as a houseplant?
Yes, spiderwort is a great option for a houseplant! Spiderwort is a tiny, low-maintenance perennial that is native to North America. It has small clusters of three-petaled flowers that come in various shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. This plant grows quickly and has the potential to bloom multiple times throughout the year when given the right environment. It can easily be grown as an indoor houseplant with shallow pots, a bright location, and moist soil. With proper care, spiderwort will happily add a pop of color and texture to any indoor room or office space.
Do spiderwort plants spread rapidly?
Yes, spiderwort plants spread rapidly. They are considered to be somewhat invasive and are capable of quickly taking over an area. The flowers of the spiderwort plant can self-pollinate, creating more flowers and more seeds, which helps the plant spread. Spiderwort plant roots also help it spread by growing deeper than those of regular plants, allowing them to capture nutrients from further down in the soil. Additionally, the spiderwort plant spreads through rhizomes, which is an underground stem that sends up shoots above the ground. All of these mechanisms combined make spiderwort a very fast spreading plant.
Is spiderwort suitable for rooftop gardens?
Yes, spiderwort is suitable for rooftop gardens because it is drought tolerant and easily adaptable to a wide range of soil types. It grows best in partial shade, does not require much fertilizer or maintenance, and is tolerant of cold temperatures. Spiderwort is also a low-maintenance flowering plant, meaning it will add color and interest to a rooftop garden with minimal effort required.
