Contents
Description
Tradescantia Sillamontana, also known as Cobweb Spiderwort, is a succulent perennial plant that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. It is native to the Mexican states of Hidalgo and Queretaro and is popular among gardeners due to its unique silvery-gray foliage and purplish-pink flowers. The plant is named after English botanist John Tradescant and the Sillamontana mountain range in Mexico where it is commonly found.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
Appearance
The leaves of Tradescantia Sillamontana are fleshy, succulent, and covered with fine white hairs that give them a silvery-gray appearance. The leaves are also arranged in a rosette pattern, and each leaf can grow up to 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. The plant produces purplish-pink flowers that are small and clustered together, and they bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers can grow up to 1 inch in diameter and have three petals.
Care Guide
Tradescantia Sillamontana is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for your Cobweb Spiderwort:
- Water: Water the plant regularly but make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Tradescantia Sillamontana prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.
- Hardiness Zones: Tradescantia Sillamontana is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tradescantia Sillamontana is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly-drained. Overwatering can also lead to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. Spider mites and aphids can also infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Tradescantia Sillamontana is native to the Sillamontana mountain range in Mexico, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soil at elevations of up to 8,200 feet. The plant is commonly found growing in the wild on rocky slopes and cliffs.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tradescantia Sillamontana a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, Tradescantia Sillamontana can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a well-lit area with good air circulation.
Q: How often should I water my Cobweb Spiderwort?
A: Water the plant regularly but make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can I propagate Tradescantia Sillamontana?
A: Yes, Tradescantia Sillamontana can be propagated by stem cuttings. Simply cut a stem below a node and plant it in well-draining soil.
Q: Does Tradescantia Sillamontana attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the purplish-pink flowers of Tradescantia Sillamontana attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Tradescantia pallida
- Tradescantia zebrina
- Tradescantia fluminensis
References
- “Tradescantia sillamontana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c420
- “Tradescantia Sillamontana.” Gardening Know How. www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/tradescantia-sillamontana/cobweb-spiderwort-care.htm
- “Tradescantia Sillamontana.” World of Succulents. www.worldofsucculents.com/tradescantia-sillamontana-cobweb-spiderwort/
