Also known as Christ’s Tears · Common Spiderwort · Eastern Spiderwort
Virginia spiderwort (Tradescantia virginiana) is a clump-forming perennial with vibrant blue, purple, or pink flowers and grass-like foliage, blooming from late spring to
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Flower color may be more intense in full sun.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter.
Low to Moderate
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Virginia spiderwort prefers consistently moist soil. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the soil become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during winter dormancy but do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if desired.
Cut back stems that become leggy or untidy in mid-summer to promote a bushier habit and potentially a second flush of flowers. Remove any dead or damaged foliage in autumn.
Virginia spiderwort is easily propagated by division or stem cuttings. Divide established clumps in early spring or autumn. Stem cuttings can be taken in late spring or summer; root them in moist soil or water.
Both methods are highly successful.
Repot container-grown Virginia spiderworts every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Early spring, before new growth begins, is the ideal time.
Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix. Fresh soil revitalizes the plant.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Virginia Spiderwort (Tradescantia virginiana)
Where Virginia Spiderwort (Tradescantia virginiana) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
| Species | Tradescantia virginiana |
Similar in genus Tradescantia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
