A tough spiderwort for shady areas, blooming late spring into early summer with bright clusters of flowers held above slender stems. Bloom color varies from purple-blues to rose red to, rarely, white. The common name refers to the web of hairs at the center of the flower. Each flower lasts for one day although many flowers are produced. Leaves are green with no whitish coating (as other spiderworts often have), long and narrow. Winter foliage provides additional season of interest. Pollen attracts beneficial insects (no nectar).
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Woodland Spiderwort
Tradescantia ernestiana
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Glade, Savanna / Woodland
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June), Winter (Nov - Mar)
Main Color: Blue, Pink / Rose, Purple
Fall Color: Purple
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Photo: Don Kurz
Sun Exposure
Medium Sun/Average Shade, Shade
Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate
Nature Attracting
Wildlife Benefit
Animal
Resistance
Size
Height:
1 to
2
feet
Spread:
1 to
2
feet
Size
Height: 1 to
2
feet
Spread: 1 to
2
feet
Size
Height: 1 to
2
feet
Spread: 1 to
2
feet
Typical Landscape Use
Nice contrasting linear texture to add to a shady area.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Prefers moist, rocky woodland areas, occurs naturally in valleys and ravines. Plants are tough and drought resistant. Goes dormant in summer with growth emerging in fall.
Special Features
Special Usage
Basic Description
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.