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Tradescantia occidentalis

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Tradescantia Occidentalis 10 Tradescantia Occidentalis 7 Tradescantia Occidentalis 6 Tradescantia Occidentalis 5 Tradescantia Occidentalis 4 Tradescantia Occidentalis Tradescantia Occidentalis 1
Tradescantia Occidentalis 10 Tradescantia Occidentalis 7 Tradescantia Occidentalis 6 Tradescantia Occidentalis 5 Tradescantia Occidentalis 4 Tradescantia Occidentalis Tradescantia Occidentalis 1

Tradescantia occidentalis

Common Name: Western Spiderwort

Western Spiderwort is a clump-forming perennial that grows 1 to 2 feet tall. It produces striking blue to violet three-petaled flowers that bloom in early to mid-summer. Found in dry prairies, sand dunes, and along woodland edges, this plant is well adapted to drought conditions. The flowers open in the morning and often close by midday, making it a unique addition to native plant gardens, rock gardens, and prairie restorations. Pollinators, including bees and butterflies, are attracted to its nectar-rich blooms.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant, Seed
Type Forb
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Soil Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic
Average Max Height (inches) 20
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 15
Bloom month(s) May, June, July, August, September
Bloom Color or Type Blue, Violet
Dominance Medium

Range Maps

Tradescantia Occidentalis Usa Range Map
Tradescantia Occidentalis Mn Range Map

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.
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