Clump forming perennial with long grass-like leaves that are blue to gray-green in color. Spiderwort produces terminal clusters of blue to purple flowers. Great option for mass plantings. Has a long bloom time because only a few flowers of the cluster are in bloom at one time.
Pollinator Type
Bees, caterpillars
Plant Type
Herbaceous perennial
Zone
4 to 9
Height
2 to 3 ft.
Spread
1 to 2 ft.
Light
Partial Shade, Full Sun
Moisture Requirement
Dry Soil, Medium Soil
Bloom Color
Purple, Blue
Bloom Time
May, June
Design Considerations
Can tolerate part shade, but better flowering in full sun. Great for the edge of a garden. Flowers open in the morning and close during the heat of the day.
Care and Maintenance
Can be aggressive in optimal growing conditions and can take over a small space. If cut back to 6 to 12 inches at the end of summer could possibly rebloom in the fall. Foliage can turn yellow in the heat of the summer.
Pest and Diseases
No major issues.
Establishment and Propagation
Start from division or seed. Seed requires 120 days of cold, moist stratification. Best when planted from seed in the fall.
Commercial Availability
Occasionally available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Southern Blue Flag Iris
Native Status
Illinois native statewide.
Fall Color
Insignificant
Growth habit
Single branched stems
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
