Care of the indoor plant Tradescantia sillamontana or Cobweb Spiderwort |
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The genus Tradescantia, family Commelinaceae, comprises 30 species of herbaceous and perennial plants native to the American continent. Some species are: Tradescantia sillamontana, Tradescantia pallida, Tradescantia multiflora, Tradescantia zebrina, Tradescantia fluminensis, Tradescantia albiflora, Tradescantia spathacea, Tradescantia brevicaulis. Common names: White Velvet, White Gossamer Plant, Cobweb Spiderwort. This species is native to northeastern Mexico. They are small, upright herbaceous perennial plants that reach 40 cm (15.74") in height. They have hairy stems, highly branched and with oblong-lanceolate leaves in the shape of a boat's keel; they are arranged alternately and may have purple tones. The flowers appear at the end of the stems and are usually deep pink. They bloom from mid spring to late summer. They are used as indoor or greenhouse plants. They do not resist cold or frost. In hot climates it grows well outdoors if the humidity is high. Tradescantia Sillamontana needs an illuminated exposure but without receiving directly the rays of the sun. The soil should be sandy, well drained, and contain leaf mulch. Water regularly so that the soil is moist during spring and summer (never water). In autumn and winter reduce watering. Prune old or wilted stems to strengthen the plant. Fertilize in spring and summer with mineral fertilizer every 15-20 days. They are easily propagated from cuttings rooted in sand and protected with glass. |
Images of the indoor plant Tradescantia sillamontana or Cobweb Spiderwort |
 Tradescantia sillamontana  Tradescantia sillamontana  Tradescantia sillamontana  Tradescantia sillamontana |