Contents
Description
Tradescantia Bracteata, commonly known as the Large-Leaved Spiderwort, is a perennial herb belonging to the Commelinaceae family. This plant is native to the southeastern United States and has now spread to other parts of the world. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant because of its attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
Appearance
The Tradescantia Bracteata has large, lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 30cm long and 5cm wide. The leaves are green and have a hairy texture. The flowers are borne on long stems and are usually blue, but can also be white or pink. They have three petals and six stamens. The plant can grow up to 60cm tall.
Care Guide
Water: The Tradescantia Bracteata requires moderate watering. It should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. Do not overwater as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The Tradescantia Bracteata prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Tradescantia Bracteata is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These can be treated with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. These can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and not overwatering.
Habitat
The Tradescantia Bracteata is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in wetlands, swamps, and along streams. It can now be found in other parts of the world, where it is cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Tradescantia Bracteata?
A: The plant should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: What is the best soil for the Tradescantia Bracteata?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What pests and diseases are common to the Tradescantia Bracteata?
A: The plant is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Tradescantia Bracteata?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Tradescantia zebrina
- Tradescantia pallida
- Tradescantia virginiana
References
- “Tradescantia bracteata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276358.
- “Tradescantia bracteata.” Plant Database. Accessed July 27, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/tradescantia-bracteata/.
- “Tradescantia bracteata.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Accessed July 27, 2021. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/plantanswers/trees/Tradescantia.html.
