Description

Ohio Spiderwort (Tradescantia ohiensis) can be found growing on the south side of road ditches and in medium to dry prairies and meadows. It’s also a very attractive addition to any garden and quite easy to grow from seed. Its unusual foliage and tendency to bloom in the morning sun and close from mid-day heat and sun make this an attractive addition wherever it is found. Spiderwort is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial which grows up to 3′ tall with dark bluish-green, arching, grass-like leaves up to 1.5′ long and 1.75″ wide which are folded lengthwise forming a channel or groove.

Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Very tolerant of part shade, but bloom may be less profuse. Prefers moist, acidic, sandy soil. Divide clumps when they become overcrowded. Cut back to 6-12″ in mid-summer to encourage new growth and a possible fall bloom.

A stand of these long-blooming Spiderworts can be in bloom from May through July. Spiderworts are native throughout the country with Ohio Spiderwort being the most widespread, and most are very adaptable tolerating sand, clay and other tough sites.