Blossfeld's Spiderwort (Tradescantia blossfeldiana)

Blossfeld's Spiderwort

Tradescantia blossfeldiana

Vibrant purple blooms pop against trailing green foliage. Low-growing herbaceous perennial; common name: Blossfeld's Spiderwort.

Partial sun
2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade, avoid intense midday direct sun which can scorch leaves
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Watering Water when top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 18–24°C; protect from temperatures below 10°C to prevent leaf browning and damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Linear to lanceolate, glossy green, 5–10 cm long, arranged alternately along trailing stems
  • Flower: Three-petaled, bright purple to pink, 2–3 cm wide, borne in terminal clusters
  • Stem: Slender, succulent trailing stems that root at nodes when in contact with soil
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows to prevent nutrient buildup

Banana peel compost tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20, and apply to soil to support blooming and foliage health
Pruning
  • Pinch back stem tips to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess
  • Remove spent flower clusters to promote reblooming throughout the growing season
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and tidy appearance
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; causes oral pain, drooling, decreased appetite, and mild vomiting

Humans: Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes temporary mouth and throat irritation

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental hanging basket plant, shaded garden ground cover