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Spiderwort (Tradescantia), Perennial
Perennial

Spiderwort

Tradescantia

Traits

Pollinator FriendlyZone 9a Hardy

Varieties We Bring In

Rainbow PurpleTradescantia
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95
2 galFrom$12.95

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.

LightFull Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size1-2 feet × 1-2 feet
Visit Nursery

About 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. Starting at $6.95.

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 forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
SNow
O
N
D
This monthGood windowOther months

Seasonal care

Bloom season. Good planting window.

Care essentials

Light

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

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.

Soil & Fertilizer

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.

From $6.95Same conditions
African Iris

African Iris

Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

From $6.95Same conditions
Agapanthus

Agapanthus

Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

From $12.95Same conditions
Mexican Petunia

Mexican Petunia

Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

From $6.95Same conditions
Narrowleaf Blue-eyed Grass

Narrowleaf Blue-eyed Grass

Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

From $9.95Same conditions

Giant Apostle's Iris

Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.

From $16.95Same conditions

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Common questions

Is Spiderwort a good plant for St. Augustine?

Spiderwort is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 1-2 feet × 1-2 feet.

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.