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Spiderwort

Tradescantia fluminensis · Commelinaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant spiderwort: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Evergreen, green and white variegated
Flowering
Small white flowers, spring-summer
Adult size
30 to 60 cm long, trailing habit
Growth
Very fast
Hardiness
Tropical plant, min. 10 °C
Origin
Brazil (Amazon basin)
Soil type
Light, well-draining, rich in organic matter

Care

Watering

Keep the substrate constantly moist, without waterlogging. Water 2 to 3 times per week during the growing season, reduce in winter. Prefer soft water at room temperature. Allow to dry slightly between waterings.

Light and exposure

Place the plant in bright, indirect or filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight, which fades the foliage. It tolerates partial shade but thrives in bright conditions. An east or west-facing window is ideal.

Pruning and pinching

Pinch the tips regularly to encourage branching and densify the habit. Cut stems that grow excessively long to maintain a compact shape. Remove yellowed or damaged leaves as needed.

Fertilizing

Fertilize every 15 days during the growing season (April to September) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. In winter, reduce to once a month or suspend temporarily if growth slows.

Substrate

Use a light mix based on leaf mold, peat and perlite or coarse sand to ensure drainage. Overly compact soil promotes root suffocation and rot.

Diseases and pests

Watch for spider mites and mealybugs, especially in dry conditions. Yellowed and sticky leaves signal an infestation. Mist the foliage regularly to increase humidity and prevent attacks. Good air circulation reduces the risk of mold.

Did you know?

Tradescantia fluminensis owes its name to the Fluminense River in Brazil, near Rio de Janeiro. In the 19th century, it conquered European gardens as an easy houseplant, prized for its spectacular growth and variegated foliage. Its ephemeral flowers—hence its nickname 'Spiderwort'—last only one day, but renew continuously in spring.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.