Zigzag Spiderwort Tradescantia subaspera

The zigzag spiderwort is a clump-forming, herbaceous perennial native to the central and eastern United States. It grows wild in deciduous woodlands, along ravines, at the base of bluffs, and along shady streams. These plants are found in the mountains and foothills of the upper Piedmont of North Carolina; however, they are not typically found in the coastal plains. The plant can reach up to 2 to 2.5 feet tall and equally wide. It is a member of the spiderwort family (Commelinaceae). The specific epithet, subaspera, means "somewhat rough."

This plant prefers part shade to full shade and moist, acidic soil. Although it can be grown in a variety of soils and is poor soils tolerant, a fertile, loamy soil is the preferred location. After flowering, the foliage will decline and appear unattractive. To encourage new growth, the foliage should be cut back to the ground. They winter hardy in zones 5 to 9. Division or self-seeding are the typical propagation methods. 

The common name, zigzag spiderwort, actually comes from the appearance of the stems. The stem makes slight direction changes at the leaf nodes in the half of the plant. The leaves are simple, alternate, clasp at the base, long and grass-like. Secondary stems and leaves can occasionally develop from the axils of the primary leaves. The fuzzy leaves have prominent parallel veins, looking similar to the leaf of a corn stalk. The flowers bloom from late May to early August. They are violet blue to purple, 3-petaled with yellow stamens, and appear as terminal clusters. The flowers open in the morning, and close in the afternoons. During cloudy days, they may remain open for a longer time period. Its root system is a mass of fibrous roots, and occasionally offsets are produced from the roots.

The zigzag spiderwort would be best grown in native garden, woodland setting, shade garden, or naturalized area.  

Quick ID Hints:

• stems have a distinctive zigzag pattern
• dark green leaves measure 10 inches long and 2 inches wide
• mid-summer blooming is later than other species
• violet-blue to purple, 3-petaled flowers with yellow stamens that appear in terminal clusters

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious diseases or pests. Snails can damage young shoots. The foliage will decline and appears unattractive about midsummer.  Deer, box turtles and cottontail rabbits may eat the foliage.

Plants in the genus, Tradescantia, are typically poisonous if ingested by humans or pets. With physical contact, they may cause redness and skin irritation. Protect children and pets when in the presence of these plants. Wearing protective gloves when handling the plants is recommended.

More information on Tradescantia.