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Description
Tradescantia Gigantea, also known as Giant Spiderwort, is a perennial plant native to Mexico and Central America. It belongs to the family Commelinaceae and is known for its beautiful foliage and purple flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or indoor space.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
Appearance
Tradescantia Gigantea has long, narrow leaves that are green on top and purple on the bottom. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern and can grow up to 12 inches long. The plant produces small, purple flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are held above the foliage on long, thin stems.
Care Guide
Tradescantia Gigantea is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The plant can tolerate some drought, but it should not be allowed to dry out completely. Fertilize the plant monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers bright, indirect light, but it can tolerate some direct sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but it can be grown indoors as a houseplant in other zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tradescantia Gigantea is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and mist the foliage regularly. If pests do appear, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Tradescantia Gigantea is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in forests and along roadsides. It prefers a warm, humid climate and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tradescantia Gigantea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Tradescantia Gigantea can be grown indoors as a houseplant as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is watered regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Tradescantia Gigantea?
A: Fertilize the plant monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Tradescantia Gigantea?
A: Tradescantia Gigantea is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: What should I do if my Tradescantia Gigantea is overwatered?
A: If your Tradescantia Gigantea is overwatered, remove it from the soil and let it dry out completely before replanting in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Tradescantia Fluminensis
- Tradescantia Zebrina
- Tradescantia Pallida
References
- “Tradescantia Gigantea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=z590. Accessed 5 Aug. 2021.
- “Tradescantia Gigantea.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/tradescantia-gigantea. Accessed 5 Aug. 2021.
- “Tradescantia Gigantea.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/tradescantia-gigantea/growing-giant-spiderwort.htm. Accessed 5 Aug. 2021.
