This low growing Florida Native is great for areas with temporary drought issues. These wildflowers are in constant bloom throughout the year. Their small purplish-blue flowers are an eye-catcher for sure. Mostly used as a small border or can be planted in an area that you want to fill in.
How to care for Ohio Spiderwort
Light. Grows in full sun to light shade.
Water. Water until established. It then handles dry to moist soil, but water during long droughts, since very dry soil can kill it.
Soil and feeding. Prefers well-drained sandy soil with little organic matter, and adapts to soil pH.
Size. Grows quickly to about 1–2 ft tall and about as wide.
Problems to watch. It can spread faster than expected, so give it room or edge the bed.
Good to know. A Florida native found south to Miami-Dade. Each flower opens in the morning and fades by midday, with blooms from February to September. Native bees visit the flowers. Keep it out of direct salt spray.
Sources: Natives for Your Neighborhood (Institute for Regional Conservation): Tradescantia ohiensis · Florida Native Plant Society Plant Database: Tradescantia ohiensis
