Virginia spiderwort (Tradescantia virginiana)

Also known as: Spider lily

Virginia spiderwort is often studied in biology classes due to the fine hairs on its stamen, which are ideal for microscopic examination. These hairs provide a clear view of cellular structures and processes. Additionally, the plant's rapid growth and ease of care make it a convenient subject for educational experiments. Its visually appealing violet-blue flowers and intricate leaves also add to its value as an ornamental plant.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Virginia spiderwort

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

45 cm to 75 cm

Spread

30 cm to 45 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1.9 cm to 4 cm

Flower Color

Purple Blue White Pink Lavender

Images of Virginia spiderwort

Quickly Identify Virginia spiderwort

Tri-petaled ephemeral flowers in radiant blues and purples, lasting only a day.

Linear leaves with parallel venation, up to 12 inches (30 cm) long, 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.

Textured seed capsules split into three parts upon maturity, releasing seeds.

Upright clumping growth habit via stolons, reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall.

Rounded, glabrous green stems, occasionally with sparse hairs near leaf junctions.

Scientific Classification of Virginia spiderwort

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Commelinales

Family

Spiderwort

Genus

Spiderworts

Species

Virginia spiderwort

Planting and Growing of Virginia spiderwort

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Virginia spiderwort?

When considering how much water to give your Tradescantia virginiana, aim for providing enough to thoroughly moisten the soil, approximately 200 milliliters per session. Ensure water drains well to avoid soggy roots, as standing water can be detrimental to the plant's health.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Virginia spiderwort?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Tradescantia virginiana thrives in partial to full sun environments, benefiting from brief to moderate sunlight exposure. Ideal light ensures vibrant foliage, encourages blooming, and supports plant health.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Virginia spiderwort?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Tradescantia virginiana thrives best within a temperature range of 60 to 75°F. This range supports optimal physiological processes including photosynthesis and nutrient absorption. Maintaining temperatures within this range minimizes stress and promotes healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

What Soil is Best for Virginia spiderwort?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 5.5 ~ 7.5

Tradescantia virginiana thrives in nutrient-rich soils that provide essential elements for growth. This ensures vibrant foliage and robust flowering. Regular soil enrichment with organic matter like compost can significantly enhance its overall health and appearance. A well-drained soil is crucial for this plant to prevent root rot. Good drainage allows excess water to escape, preventing waterlogged conditions that can hinder growth. Proper soil structure helps maintain the plant's vitality by ensuring roots receive adequate air. Tradescantia virginiana prefers soil that is consistently moist yet not saturated with water. This balance aids in maintaining the plant's lushness, as too much water can drown the roots, while too little can lead to dehydration and wilting. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Virginia spiderwort?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Tradescantia virginiana, applying a liquid fertilizer in a balanced formula every two weeks during the growing season is optimal. A general recommendation is to use a half-strength dosage to prevent over-fertilization. When using slow-release granules, apply them every four months during the active growing periods, following the manufacturer's instructions for quantity per plant size. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Virginia spiderwort?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Prune during the active growing season. Begin by cutting back any long, leggy stems. Make your cuts at a 45-degree angle above a node or leaf, ensuring not to remove more than a third of the plant at one time. Remove any damaged or diseased leaves and stems immediately to prevent the spread of illness. Make sure to dispose of these parts properly and sterilize your tools again after removing diseased material. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Virginia spiderwort plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

To propagate Tradescantia virginiana, select healthy stems that are disease-free and at least 4-6 inches long. The cut should be made just below a node.

For seed propagation, scatter the seeds over a well-draining soil mix and lightly cover them. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs, which usually takes 2-3 weeks.

Division involves gently removing the plant from its pot, separating it into smaller sections, each with roots and shoots, and replanting them individually.

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How to Repot Virginia spiderwort plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repot Tradescantia virginiana when you notice roots growing through the drainage holes or when the plant appears top-heavy. Additionally, if the soil dries out very quickly after watering, it might indicate that the plant has outgrown its current pot. Typically, the best time to repot is when the plant is showing signs of active growth, ensuring a higher rate of successful adjustment.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Make sure it has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which this plant doesn't tolerate well. A pot that's too large can hold excess moisture, which Tradescantia virginiana roots would rather avoid. The right pot will allow roots to spread comfortably and provide stability to the plant.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand. This allows excess water to drain away easily, preventing root rot, which can be disastrous for your Tradescantia. A suitable soil mix retains enough moisture to keep the plant healthy while simultaneously allowing proper oxygenation of the roots.

Toxicity of Virginia spiderwort

Is Virginia spiderwort toxic to cat?

Virginia spiderwort is harmful to cats and presents a danger if eaten. When felines inadvertently ingest any portion of this plant, they may face the threat of poisoning owing to its toxic characteristics. Such exposure typically results in physical unease or health issues. It is crucial to thwart access to virginia spiderwort and meticulously monitor for any possible symptoms of illness that may manifest following unintentional consumption. Should a cat display indications of poisoning, prompt veterinary attention is vital to secure the most favorable outcome for the impacted pet.

Is Virginia spiderwort toxic to dog?

Virginia spiderwort is recognized as toxic to dogs. If any part of the virginia spiderwort is ingested by a dog, toxicity may occur since all parts of this plant are harmful. Dogs might unintentionally consume virginia spiderwort while exploring the great outdoors or if this plant is accessible in their home environment. Signs of poisoning in dogs can include gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and excessive salivation. It is vital for dog owners to be watchful and restrict their pets from coming into contact with virginia spiderwort. Should a dog ingest this plant, it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary assistance to ensure the best possible outcome for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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