Tradescantia virginiana, commonly known as Virginia Spiderwort, is a native perennial found in prairies, meadows, and woodland edges throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features long, grass-like leaves and clusters of vibrant, purple to blue, three-petaled flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers open in the morning and close by the afternoon, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its attractive foliage and consistent blooms make it a favorite in wildflower and native plant gardens.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Tradescantia virginiana is a lovely addition to pollinator-friendly gardens, offering long-lasting color, texture, and support for local wildlife.
Tradescantia virginiana, commonly known as Virginia Spiderwort, is a native perennial found in prairies, meadows, and woodland edges throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features long, grass-like leaves and clusters of vibrant, purple to blue, three-petaled flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers open in the morning and close by the afternoon, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its attractive foliage and consistent blooms make it a favorite in wildflower and native plant gardens.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Tradescantia virginiana is a lovely addition to pollinator-friendly gardens, offering long-lasting color, texture, and support for local wildlife.
Bloom: late spring to mid-summer
Habitats: moist to mesic black soil prairies; openings and edges of woodlands; powerline clearances through woodland areas; sand prairies; sandstone cliffs; savannas; thickets
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to mesic
Plant type (height): forb (up to 2.5 feet)
Requirements: partial sun (tolerates light shade)
Soil: fertile loam (some sand or gravel is acceptable)
