Ohio Spiderwart (Tradescantia ohiensis)

Ohio spiderwart can be found all over the eastern half of the US (east of the Rockies). It is really adaptable to clay or rocky soil and can be found in drainage ditches, prairies or meadows. It can be easy to start from seed but requires a 120 day moist stratification period or can be winter stratified. The plant can spread aggressively in smaller spaces as it grows in clumps. The clumps can be divided and relocated if desired. This plant is visited by a wide variety of native bees.

Planting/Harvesting Notes

  • Plant once all danger of frost has passed
  • Plant in full to partial sun (blooms better in full sun)
  • Expect blooms from May-June
  • Finished height 2-4 feet
  • Attracts a wide variety of native bees

Seed Saving

  • Wait until the seed heads are completely dried and brown on the flower head
  • You can bag the dried flowers in organza bags to make seed collecting easier.
  • Once seed is collected, store in a labeled paper envelope in a cool dry place.
Wide view of ohio spiderwart plant
Wide view of ohio spiderwart plant.

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