Plant Profile

Ohio Spiderwort - (Tradescantia ohiensis) is a clump-forming perennial in the Commelinaceae  (Spiderwort) family. The specific epithet, ohiensis, means "Ohio." It is native to the central and eastern United States. The Ohio Spiderwort is the most common and widespread of the species in the United States. In the wild, it is found growing in meadows, along roads, and along woodland margins. 

This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained, acidic, sand, loam, gravel or clay soil. They are drought, dry soils, and shallow rocky soils tolerant. It can be grown in shade, however, the blooms will not be as profuse as when placed in full sun. Growing to a height of 2 to 3 feet and a width of 2 feet, it is best known for its purple to blue, 3-petaled flowers which appear from May through July. They may be propagated by division, stem cuttings, or seeds. Some caution is advised when planting Spiderworts in small areas. Their natural tendency is to spread via dense running rhizomes while also being heavy self-seeders. 

Consider using Ohio Spiderworts as a border planting, in woodland gardens, wildflower gardens or meadows. It can be used as a groundcover and naturalizes easily, making this an excellent addition to your landscape because of its long blooming season.