Spiderwort Tradescantia x andersoniana 'Purple Profusion'

'Purple Profusion' is a cultivar perennial spiderwort in the Commelinaceae (dayflower) family.  Spiderwort gets its name from the thick, sticky secretion that is present when a stem is cut.  This substance becomes thread-like and silky when it hardens, appearing similar to a spider web.  

It grows to 18 inches tall and wide and performs at its best when planted in acid rich soils.  It can also be grown in neutral or alkaline soils.   Flower production is increased when grown in full sun, however, in warmer climates, a little afternoon shade is appreciated. A singular plant will not produce seed.  Planting two or more plants together, seed will be produced.  The resulting seedlings may not resemble the parent plants.  

It is typically in bloom from May to August.  Once all the flowers on a cluster have bloomed, deadheading each cluster may extend the bloom period.  Deadheading will also give the plant a more attractive appearance.   Flowering will slow down or stop in the mid-summer heat.  The foliage will also decline as temperatures increase.  At that point, cut the plant down almost to the ground.  This will promote new growth to the foliage and may give you a late summer to fall bloom.

'Purple Profusion' is a clump-forming spiderwort known for its deep purple flowers with contrasting yellow stamens. Its young foliage is purple-tinged.  It has clusters sitting atop stiff stems with numerous flower buds on each cluster.  Flowers open a few at a time, lasting for one day.  On cool or cloudy days, the flower may remain open longer than on hotter, sunny days.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Snails and caterpillars may damage young shoots.  The mid-summer decline in flowers and foliage makes the plant unattractive. Can be subject to diseases if overhead irrigation is used on a regular basis.

More information on Tradescantia x andersoniana.