Contents
Description
Tradescantia Occidentalis Var. Occidentalis, also known as Western Spiderwort, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. It belongs to the Commelinaceae family and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its striking blue-purple flowers and attractive foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
Appearance
Tradescantia Occidentalis Var. Occidentalis has long, narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are typically green with a purple tinge on the underside. Its flowers are typically blue-purple and bloom from late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great choice for borders, rock gardens, or as a ground cover.
Care Guide
Tradescantia Occidentalis Var. Occidentalis is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for its care:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in a location that receives full to partial sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Tradescantia Occidentalis Var. Occidentalis is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tradescantia Occidentalis Var. Occidentalis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant is well-watered and kept in a well-ventilated area.
Habitat
Tradescantia Occidentalis Var. Occidentalis is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and woodland edges. It prefers well-drained soil and full to partial sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tradescantia Occidentalis Var. Occidentalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it has adequate drainage and is planted in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Tradescantia Occidentalis Var. Occidentalis be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal growing zone for Tradescantia Occidentalis Var. Occidentalis?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Q: How tall can Tradescantia Occidentalis Var. Occidentalis grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Tradescantia Pallida
- Tradescantia Zebrina
- Tradescantia Fluminensis
- Tradescantia Sillamontana
References
- “Tradescantia occidentalis var. occidentalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287461. Accessed 9 Sept. 2021.
- “Tradescantia occidentalis var. occidentalis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=TRORO. Accessed 9 Sept. 2021.
- “Tradescantia occidentalis var. occidentalis.” PlantFiles, www.gardensonline.com.au/gardenshed/plantfinder/show_3817.aspx. Accessed 9 Sept. 2021.
