Tradescantia subaspera

Scientific Name (Genus/Species): Tradescantia subaspera

Family: (Commelinaceae)

(P) to 3′. Zigzag Spiderwort. Missouri. Broader leaves and the distinctive zigzag stem set it apart from the old faithful T. virginiana. Terminal clusters of numerous flower buds open daily to large, violet blue, three-petalled flowers that are highlighted by the yellow anthers atop long, hairy, blue filaments. We cut the foliage in half after flowering to prevent flopping and encourage new growth and possible repeat blooms. After cutting back a viscous secretion is released from the stem, which hardens to become thread-like and silky-like the web of a spider. Ours is growing on the Order Beds in full sun and good soil. A long bloom time from May to August. 3 & T1