Educational Corner: Spiderwort

Tradescantia ohiensis is the most common and widespread species of spiderwort in the United States. Its native range extends north to Wisconsin, Michigan and slightly into Ontario; west to Texas and Kansas; south to Florida; and northeast to Massachusetts. With their flower parts in threes (three petals and six stamens), Spiderworts are in the Monocot class. Flowers last only one day, but each stem can produce 20 or more flowers. This species has dark green, arching, grass-like leaves that are folded to form channels or grooves.

Bloom dates: April through July.
Height: Grows to 16–40 inches tall, and may sprawl.
Habitat: Prefers full to partial sun and is commonly found in prairies, wood margins, meadows, along roadsides, or in waste areas.

Kingdom: Plantae
Group: Monocots
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Commelinales
Family: Commelinaceae

Plant Facts:

•  You can find this plant with blue, purple, pink and even white flowers.

•  Gently squeeze the spent flower and watch your fingers turn purple.

•  Learn more: Many insects like to visit this plant — try to guess how many different species can be identified out in the field.