Contents
Description
Tradescantia Crassifolia, commonly known as the Small-leaf Spiderwort, is a fast-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. It is a native to Mexico and Central America and is widely cultivated for its attractive foliage and purple flowers. This plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and spreads up to 60 cm in width. It is well-known for its ability to tolerate drought and hot weather conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
Appearance
The leaves of Tradescantia Crassifolia are succulent and are about 3-10 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The leaves are dark green in color and have a waxy texture. The flowers of this plant are small, purple, and appear in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers bloom from late spring to early fall.
Care Guide
Tradescantia Crassifolia is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. However, to ensure its optimal growth and health, follow these tips:
Water
Water Tradescantia Crassifolia regularly but avoid overwatering. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions, so it’s best to let the soil dry out a little before watering again.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to root burn.
Soil
Tradescantia Crassifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight
Tradescantia Crassifolia prefers bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s best to keep the plant away from the hot afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones
Tradescantia Crassifolia can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tradescantia Crassifolia is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered or if the soil is not well-draining.
Habitat
Tradescantia Crassifolia is a native plant of Mexico and Central America. It is commonly found in rocky areas, along roadsides, and in disturbed habitats. The plant is well-adapted to dry and hot conditions and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Tradescantia Crassifolia?
A: Water Tradescantia Crassifolia regularly but avoid overwatering. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions, so it’s best to let the soil dry out a little before watering again.
Q: What is the ideal soil mix for Tradescantia Crassifolia?
A: Tradescantia Crassifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for this plant.
Q: Does Tradescantia Crassifolia require a lot of sunlight?
A: Tradescantia Crassifolia prefers bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s best to keep the plant away from the hot afternoon sun.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of Tradescantia Crassifolia?
A: Tradescantia Crassifolia can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Tradescantia Fluminensis
- Tradescantia Zebrina
- Tradescantia Pallida
References
- “Tradescantia crassifolia”. Plants of the World Online. Kew Science.
- “Tradescantia Species, Small-leaf Spiderwort, Cobweb Spiderwort, Hairy-jointed Spiderwort, Tradescantia crassifolia”. Dave’s Garden.
- “Tradescantia crassifolia”. Missouri Botanical Garden.
