How to Grow Virginia Spiderwort
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Virginia Spiderwort
Tradescantia virginiana
flowerVirginia Spiderwort is a herbaceous perennial native to eastern North America, known for its vibrant three-petaled flowers that bloom in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white. The plants produce delicate, grass-like foliage and thrive in woodland gardens and mixed borders. Flowers typically last only one day but are produced in abundance throughout the growing season.
When should you plant Virginia Spiderwort in your zone?
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Example Virginia Spiderwort timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Virginia 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 Virginia Spiderwort blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Virginia Spiderwort dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 4-8
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Get my Virginia Spiderwort timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny green seedlings emerge with narrow leaves; very small delicate growth
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright, indirect light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing when 2-3 inches tall.
Vegetative
4-6 weeksPlant develops clumping mounds of narrow, grass-like green foliage; upright growth habit reaching 12-24 inches
Water regularly to maintain moist soil. Apply 1-2 inches mulch around base. Pinch back stems in spring to encourage bushier growth and more flower buds.
Pre-flowering
1-2 weeksFlower buds form at stem tips, clustered in small groups; plant reaches full height
Continue regular watering. Ensure adequate sunlight for prolific blooming. Feed with balanced or phosphorus-rich fertilizer if soil is poor.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (May-July in most regions)Three-petaled flowers open in succession from late spring through summer, typically in morning hours, lasting one day each
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Water during dry spells. No deadheading needed if wildlife appeal is desired.
Seed Development & Dormancy
Variable; dormancy starts fall through winterAfter flowering concludes, plant produces small seed capsules; foliage may decline in late summer heat; dies back in fall
Leave seed heads for self-seeding if desired. Cut back foliage in fall or early spring. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in spring or fall.
Common Pests
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Spray foliage with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap in severe cases; ensure adequate humidity
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Hand-pick in early morning or evening; apply diatomaceous earth around plants; use slug bait if severe
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Hand-pick if few in number; use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray; remove affected leaves
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Improve air circulation by spacing plants adequately; remove infected leaves; apply sulfur fungicide if needed
Uses
Edible Garnish
CulinaryThe colorful flowers are edible with a slightly sweet taste and make beautiful garnishes for salads and desserts. Petals can be used fresh to decorate plates in modern cuisine. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalHistorically used by Native Americans and in folk medicine as a remedy for respiratory issues and skin conditions. The plant contains compounds with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangement
HouseholdExcellent as fresh-cut flowers for morning bouquets; petals have a delicate, ephemeral beauty. Each flower lasts one day but plants produce abundant blooms over weeks. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeAttracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects throughout the flowering season. Provides nectar and pollen to support early-season pollinators. [source]
Garden Design & Landscape Color
CraftValuable perennial for woodland gardens, shade gardens, naturalized areas, and mixed borders providing extended seasonal color. Self-seeds readily in favorable conditions for natural landscape effects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Virginia Spiderwort is grown for ornamental flowers rather than harvest. Cut fresh flowers in the morning for indoor arrangements; they typically close by afternoon. Collect mature seed pods in late summer or fall if allowing plants to self-seed; dry completely before storing.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Spiderwort' likely derives from the old belief that the plant's juice could cure spider bites, though this is unproven.
- 🌱 Each flower blooms for only one day, opening in the morning and closing by afternoon—a characteristic called 'ephemeral flowers'—but plants produce new flowers daily for months.
- 🌱 Native Americans used Tradescantia species as food and medicine, and the plant remains important in traditional ecological knowledge of eastern woodlands.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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