Contents
Description
Tradescantia Subaspera is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to the southeastern United States. It is also known as the smooth spiderwort or long-bracted spiderwort. This plant has a clumping growth habit and can reach heights of up to 3 feet. It produces small, three-petaled flowers that are typically blue or purple in color. The flowers bloom from spring to fall and attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
Appearance
The leaves of Tradescantia Subaspera are long, narrow, and pointed, with a smooth texture. They are typically a bright green color and can grow up to 10 inches in length. The stem is also green and often has a slightly reddish tint. The flowers are small and three-petaled, with a diameter of around 1 inch. They are typically blue or purple in color and have a delicate, papery texture.
Care Guide
Tradescantia Subaspera is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. It can also tolerate some drought, but should not be allowed to completely dry out. This plant prefers partial shade to full sun and should be fertilized every few weeks during the growing season. It is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tradescantia Subaspera is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies, which can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves. If you notice these pests, you can treat them with an insecticidal soap spray. This plant can also be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Tradescantia Subaspera is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found in wetlands, marshes, and other damp areas. It prefers moist soil and can be found growing along the edges of streams and ponds, as well as in ditches and other wet areas. It can also be found growing in open fields and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tradescantia Subaspera be propagated through cuttings?
A: Yes, Tradescantia Subaspera can be propagated through stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: Does Tradescantia Subaspera attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of Tradescantia Subaspera attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I fertilize Tradescantia Subaspera?
A: Tradescantia Subaspera should be fertilized every few weeks during the growing season.
Q: Is Tradescantia Subaspera toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Tradescantia Subaspera can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.
Related Plants
- Tradescantia Andersoniana
- Tradescantia Fluminensis
- Tradescantia Pallida
- Tradescantia Zebrina
References
- “Tradescantia subaspera.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c444.
- “Tradescantia subaspera.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/94597/.
- “Tradescantia subaspera.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=TRSU5.
