Spiderwort, Virginia Spiderwort, Widow's tears
Tradescantia virginiana
Family: Commelinaceae
What it is like
A herb. It grows 30-60 cm high. It spreads 50-120 cm wide. It has large clumps of long narrow leaves. They are like grass leaves. They are 15-38 cm long. The flowers are white, pink or violet. They are in small heads.
There are about 65 Tradescantia species.
Where it is found
It is a warm temperate plant. It grows near the edges of forests and along roadsides. It will grow in most soils and needs a protected, partly shaded position. It is resistant to frost but sensitive to drought. It suits hardiness zones 7-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, Myanmar, North America (country/location of origin), SE Asia, Slovenia, Tasmania, USA
How it is used for food
The fresh young leaves can be used in salads or boiled for 10 minutes and eaten as a green vegetable. They can be added to soups and stews. They can be served with butter or an oil or vinegar dressing. The flowers can be eaten and used as a garnish or candied. They are used to decorate food and cakes. The seeds can be roasted and eaten.
Edible parts
Flowers, leaves, seeds
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by division.
Its other names
Local names
Vrtna tradeskancija