Varieties We Bring In
Rainbow Purple
Rainbow Purple
We received some Spiderwort on Jul 19, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
Last received Jul 19, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
Pet toxicity: not on file, check before planting where pets chew
Pet safety guideAbout Spiderwort
Tradescantia encompasses a diverse genus of perennials from the Americas, including Florida-native T. ohiensis (spiderwort) and popular ornamentals like T. pallida (Purple Heart). All are zone 9b-hardy, producing three-petaled blooms in pink, purple, or white from spring through fall, and valued for both colorful foliage and pollinator appeal.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Purple
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Clay, Well-drained, Moist
Best planting months
Recommended months: March, April, May, September, October, November.
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Tradescantia performs in full sun to partial shade; T. pallida (Purple Heart) thrives in full sun with the best foliage color, while T. ohiensis (native spiderwort) and trailing forms prefer partial shade in NE Florida's intense summer heat.
Water regularly to maintain moderate soil moisture; established plants tolerate short dry periods, but consistent moisture during summer promotes fuller growth and extended bloom — cut back in midsummer to refresh.
Adaptable to a wide range of soils including sandy, loamy, or clay, with moderate fertility; light feeding in spring with a balanced fertilizer is sufficient — avoid high nitrogen, which promotes foliage over flowers.
Similar needs
Frostweed
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
African Iris
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Agapanthus
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Mexican Petunia
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Narrowleaf Blue-eyed Grass
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Giant Apostle's Iris
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
You may also like
PerennialAgapanthus
Agapanthus praecox
PerennialAlligator Flag
Thalia geniculata
PerennialAlocasia
Alocasia
Common questions
Is Spiderwort a good plant for St. Augustine?
Spiderwort is a perennial. Mature size: 1-2 feet × 1-2 feet. Light: Full Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade. Water needs: Moderate. Recorded hardiness zone: 9a.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.