Tradescantia
Tradescantia species
Tradescantia are hardy perennials with three-petaled flowers that bloom for just one day. They symbolize transient beauty, resilience, and the preciousness of fleeting moments.
Commelinaceae (Spiderwort family)
Late spring through summer (May-September)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: penstemons and rockroses also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The name "spiderwort" comes from the spider-web-like strands that form when stems are broken. Each flower blooms for only one day, symbolizing the transient nature of beauty and the importance of appreciating fleeting moments. Despite this brief bloom, the plant is incredibly resilient and long-lived.Botanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (4-8 hours of sunlight)
Water
Moderate to consistent moisture; some drought tolerance
Soil
Well-drained, Moist, Average garden soil, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in spring or fall in well-drained soil
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming
Can spread by underground rhizomes - control if needed
Tolerates a wide range of growing conditions
Cut back after flowering to maintain tidy appearance
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Naturalized woodland gardens
- Perennial borders and cottage gardens
- Ground cover in shaded areas
- Wildlife and pollinator gardens
- Low-maintenance landscaping
Traditional Uses
- Traditional use by Native Americans for various ailments
- Young leaves historically eaten as wild vegetables
- Modern research into potential antioxidant properties
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tradescantia
what do tradescantia flowers symbolize
Tradescantia flowers symbolize transient beauty, resilience, and fleeting moments — each bloom lasts only one day, representing the preciousness of temporary beauty.
why are tradescantia called spiderwort
Tradescantia are called spiderwort because when the stems are broken, they form spider-web-like strands of sticky sap that connect the broken pieces.
how long do tradescantia flowers last
Individual Tradescantia flowers last only one day — but the plant produces new flowers continuously throughout the growing season from late spring through summer.
are tradescantia easy to grow
Yes, Tradescantia are very easy to grow — they're extremely hardy, tolerant of various conditions, and can spread to form natural colonies in suitable locations.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Penstemon
Penstemon spp.
Penstemon, commonly called Beardtongue, produces spikes of tubular flowers beloved by hummingbirds. These hardy perennials symbolize courage, spiritual strength, and the rugged beauty of the American West.
Rockrose
Cistus species
Rockrose is a drought-tolerant Mediterranean shrub with delicate papery flowers that bloom profusely in spring. It symbolizes resilience, adaptability, and simple beauty.
Lantana
Lantana camara
Lantana produces clusters of small, colorful flowers that change color as they age. These heat-loving shrubs symbolize rigor and resilience.