Spiderwort – Wild Weeds

Wild Weeds – Weed of the Month

Spiderwort

Tradescantia virginiana
spiderwort purple flowers and green leaves
Photo Credit: Edwin Martin, 1996. https://www.wildflower.org/gallery/result.php?id_image=3580

Spiderwort is a large perrenial plant which can grow to heights of 3 feet. This clumping plant has long, narrow leaves with branched stalks which are topped by groups of bluish-purple flowers with showy yellow stamens. Flowers have three petals and can be up to 2 inches across, these flowers are only open for one day and are often closed by mid-day. Blooms can be seen between March and August.

Spiderwort is named after its appearance of a squatting spider. Often found on roadsides, in natural areas, and in landscaped areas due to their attractive seasonal color and success in shady or sunny areas. Some people do experience mild irritation when touching the leaves so be cautious. Flowers are edible and have been compared to candy, Stems and leaves can be eaten cooked, some would compare the texture to asparagus.

Learn more about the plant characteristics here: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=trvi

Check out other Wild Weeds Here: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/bakerco/tag/wild-weeds/

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Posted: May 1, 2021


Category: Agriculture, Conservation, Forests, Natural Resources, Pests & Disease, UF/IFAS Extension
Tags: Natural Resources, NFLAG, Wild Weeds


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