Western Spiderwort
Tradescantia occidentalis
Western Spiderwort is a vigorous prairie perennial with striking blue-violet three-petaled flowers accented by golden stamens. Each delicate bloom lasts only a day, but plants produce flowers in succession throughout summer.
Commelinaceae (Dayflower family)
Early to mid-summer (May-July, with sporadic blooms continuing)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: western blue flaxs and blue mistflowers also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The genus Tradescantia is named after John Tradescant the Younger (1608-1662), gardener to King Charles I of England. The common name "spiderwort" may derive from the spider-leg appearance of the foliage or from historical use to treat spider bites ("wort" is Old English for plant). Each flower lasts only one day, but the succession of blooms provides extended color. The stamen hairs are used in genetic research as they mutate from blue to pink when exposed to radiation.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun for best flowering (at least 6 hours); tolerates partial shade with reduced blooms
Water
Prefers moist, fertile soil but drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged conditions
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile, Sandy, Loamy, Adaptable to various types
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in spring or fall
Provide well-drained soil; does not tolerate wet feet
Cut back foliage in mid-summer if it becomes untidy
May self-seed aggressively in fertile, moist soil; deadhead to prevent excessive spread
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Flowers open in morning, close by mid-afternoon
Heat and drought tolerant once established
Deer and rabbit resistant
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Prairie and meadow gardens
- Perennial borders and mixed beds
- Native plant gardens
- Pollinator gardens
- Naturalized areas
- Erosion control on slopes
Traditional Uses
- Native Americans used Western Spiderwort as a cooked vegetable
- Young shoots can be eaten fried or boiled
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Western Spiderwort
Why is it called Spiderwort?
The name "spiderwort" may come from the spider-leg appearance of the grass-like foliage, or from its historical use to treat spider bites. "Wort" is Old English for plant or herb.
How long do Western Spiderwort flowers last?
Individual Western Spiderwort flowers last only one day, opening in the morning and closing by mid-afternoon. However, plants produce flowers in succession throughout early summer, providing weeks of continuous blooms.
Is Western Spiderwort invasive?
Western Spiderwort can self-seed aggressively in fertile, moist soil and may spread beyond its intended area. It is best suited for naturalized areas, meadows, or gardens where it has room to spread. Deadhead flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding.
Can Western Spiderwort be used in scientific research?
Yes, Western Spiderwort has been used as a bioassay for radiation. The stamen hairs normally appear blue, but when exposed to ionizing radiation like neutrons, the cells mutate and turn pink, making it useful for detecting environmental radiation.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Western Blue Flax
Linum lewisii (syn. Linum perenne var. lewisii)
Western Blue Flax is a delicate perennial wildflower with sky-blue five-petaled flowers that open each morning and close by afternoon. Named after explorer Meriwether Lewis, it graces western landscapes from mountains to prairies with ethereal beauty.
Blue Mistflower
Conoclinium coelestinum
Blue Mistflower is a native perennial wildflower with fluffy blue-violet blooms that attract butterflies and bees. Its late summer to fall flowering makes it valuable for pollinator gardens when many other plants have finished blooming.
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.