How to Grow Spiderwort
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Spiderwort
Tradescantia virginiana
flowerSpiderwort is a charming perennial native to eastern North America, known for its delicate three-petaled flowers that bloom in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white. The plant features long, arching, grass-like foliage and produces new flowers daily during its blooming season. It's an easy-to-grow, low-maintenance plant that thrives in various garden conditions.
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Example Spiderwort timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Spiderwort
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Spiderwort blooms
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Spiderwort dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; most vigorous in cooler to moderate climates
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Seed/Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny seedlings with delicate first leaves emerge; plants develop multiple stems and grass-like foliage.
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Thin seedlings to 18 inches apart. Provide bright light but avoid direct scorching sun.
Vegetative
6-10 weeksPlant develops dense clumps of long, arching, lance-shaped green leaves; no flowers yet.
Water regularly, fertilize lightly with balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Pinch back stems if desired to encourage bushiness.
Flowering
6-10 weeksThree-petaled flowers open in clusters at stem tips; each flower lasts only one day but continuous new blooms appear daily.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Water consistently. Remove faded flower clusters to tidy appearance.
Seed Development
4-6 weeksAfter flowering, seed pods form; foliage may look somewhat tired or yellowed.
Allow some flowers to set seed if desired for self-sowing. Cut back old foliage by mid-summer for fresh growth and fall rebloom.
Dormancy/Regrowth
4-5 monthsPlant dies back in fall and winter; returns from roots in spring.
Cut dead foliage to ground level in late fall. Mulch in colder zones. No watering needed during winter dormancy.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity by misting; use insecticidal soap or spray with water. Rarely severe.
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Insecticidal soap or neem oil spray; remove heavily infested leaves.
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate affected plants.
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and
Remove by hand, set beer traps, or use organic slug bait around base.
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinarySpiderwort flowers are edible with a slightly sweet flavor and are used as garnish in salads and desserts. [source]
Traditional Herbal Medicine
MedicinalNative Americans used Tradescantia species to treat respiratory issues and inflammatory conditions; contains compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Indoor Houseplant
HouseholdSpiderwort cultivars like Tradescantia zebrina and T. pallida are popular low-maintenance indoor plants that grow in hanging baskets or on shelves. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
CraftFresh spiderwort flowers make delicate additions to floral arrangements, though each bloom lasts only one day. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeSpiderwort attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it valuable for supporting garden ecosystems. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Spiderwort is an ornamental flower primarily enjoyed in the garden. Cut flowers for bouquets early in the morning when petals are fresh; they will close by afternoon. For seeds, allow flowers to fade and dry on plant, then collect seed pods when brown and papery. The entire plant can be cut back to 4-6 inches in mid-summer to promote fresh growth and autumn blooms.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'spiderwort' comes from the delicate, spider-leg-like appearance of the three thin petals.
- 🌱 Each spiderwort flower opens in the morning and closes by afternoon, living only one day, but the plant produces dozens of new blooms daily throughout the growing season.
- 🌱 Spiderwort has been used for centuries in traditional Native American medicine, particularly by tribes in the eastern United States.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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