Tradescantia General Information
Tradescantia are easily grown in soils that are moist to boggy. Can be sheared to the ground in midsummer. New foliage will return and possibly rebloom in Fall. Each flower stalk has many flower buds. When flower stems are cut, a secretion is released that is threadlike and silky much like a spider web; hence, the common name, Spiderwort
Idaho has restricted all potted plant material from being shipped into Idaho
at this time.
Tradescantia Plant Care
Foliage will retain best variegation in part shade locations. Prefers moist to wet, fertile soil. Can be divided every 2 - 3 years in spring or fall. Cutting plants back by half in May will produce more compact plants, if desired. Remove spent blossoms through blooming season to increase repeat blooms. Flower buds close up by late afternoon. If foliage declines in summer heat, cut back almost to ground to promote new foliage and 2nd bloom late summer to fall. If not cut back in summer, cut back after killing frost.