Species small-leaf spiderwort

small-leaf spiderwort

Tradescantia fluminensis

Small-leaf spiderwort (Tradescantia fluminensis), is a bright, low-maintenance evergreen perennial plant. It is an upright plant with spectacular bright purple 3-petaled flowers and small lance-shaped succulent leaves. Flowering is long-lasting, beginning in early spring and lasting throughout summer. Small-leaf spiderwort needs lots of sunlight, but it is very drought tolerant and does not need supplemental water unless it is under extreme drought conditions. It makes a great addition to any garden as a low-growing groundcover in well-drained soil. It's a great choice for rock gardens, adding a splash of color under trees or shrubs, and is perfect for growing in containers.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Stem Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 12

Flowers:

White Flowers In Spring

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

green,brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,purple

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Indoors:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Small-leaf spiderwort (Tradescantia fluminensis) should be watered weekly when the soil is slightly dry, with approximately 1/2 inch of water. Make sure to not overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering increases as the temperature and humidity levels rise. In more hot and dry conditions, the plant may need watering every few days. Pay attention to the appearance of the leaves, if they start to curl, the plant needs more water.

sunlight

Small-leaf spiderwort (Tradescantia fluminensis) is a houseplant that prefers bright, indirect light. Ideal locations for this species include near a south or east-facing window. Exposure to direct sunlight should be limited, as this type of plant does not tolerate intense, strong sunlight. It is best to keep the plant in partial to medium intensity light for 4 to 6 hours a day. This light should be filtered and shaded by a sheer curtain in order to protect the leaves from sunburn. Additionally, small-leaf spiderwort can grow in low light conditions, however, the foliage may become weaker and less vibrant.

pruning

Small-leaf Spiderwort should be pruned back to the crown once a year, usually in the spring. This should be done to keep the plant looking compact and healthy. Pruning doesn't have to be done by much, perhaps 1/3 of the total height of the plant. deadheading or cutting off spent flowers and tips of the foliage can also be done as needed. This will encourage the plant to grow laterally and become bushier and fuller.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Tradescantia fluminensis typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Tradescantia fluminensis typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

Tradescantia fluminensis is typically harvested in the months of June, July, and August.

Hardiness Map