Spiderworts (Tradescantia spp.) are herbaceous perennial plants native to parts of Canada and the southeastern United States.
There are two species of spiderwort that are native to South Carolina:
- Smooth Spiderwort (T. ohiensis)
- Virginia Spiderwort (T. virginiana)
Smooth Spiderwort (Tradescantia ohiensis)
Smooth spiderwort (Tradescantia ohiensis), also known as Ohio spiderwort, can be found growing in meadows, at woodland edges, and along roadsides. It has three-petaled flowers with a lovely purplish-blue color, and long, elegant leaves. The blooming period is long, and flowers can persist almost year-round in warmer climates.
Smooth spiderwort with flowers and buds.
Photo credit: SCNPS https://scnps.org/plants/tradescantia-ohiensis/ with photo credit to Tierney Rosenstock
Virginia Spiderwort (Tradescantia virginiana)
Virginia spiderwort (Tradescantia virginiana) can be found in a variety of places, including woodlands, meadows, hillsides, streambanks, and roadsides. Virginia spiderwort prefers moist soils, but can adapt to regular garden sites if all other cultural conditions are met. Blooms are similar to Smooth spiderwort, but this plant is currently threatened and should be left alone when found in the wild.
Virginia Spiderwort in bloom.
Barbara Smith, 2020, Clemson Extension
Value to Pollinators
Both species of spiderwort are attractive to native pollinators and beneficial insects. Smooth spiderworts can serve as a larval host for some native insects as well.
Spiderworts are an important part of our ecosystem and should be appreciated as such. Smooth spiderwort can be purchased and planted as part of a pollinator garden or naturalized planting, and the delicate flowers make it a great addition to any garden.
Invasive Spiderworts in South Carolina
Not all spiderworts are beneficial plants.
Tradescantia fluminensis, also called inch-plant, wander creeper, and small-leaved spiderwort, is native to South America and spreads very aggressively in the southern U.S.
Avoid planting invasive spiderwort species and choose native varieties instead.
Additional Resources
HGIC 1718, Plants for Damp or Wet Areas
HGIC 1153, Growing Perennials
HGIC 1727, Pollinator Gardening
