Prairie Spiderwort Seeds – 25 Tradescantia bracteata Native Purple Wildflower

Prairie Spiderwort (Tradescantia bracteata) is a native perennial wildflower that brings vibrant color to prairies, meadows, and pollinator gardens. Its striking three-petaled purple flowers bloom in clusters atop upright stems, creating a beautiful contrast against narrow, grass-like foliage. This hardy plant is well-suited for naturalized areas, native plant gardens, and borders, where it attracts bees and other pollinators.

Easy to grow from seed, Prairie Spiderwort is a rewarding choice for gardeners looking to add native beauty to their landscape. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates a range of soil conditions, making it a versatile addition to wildflower plantings.

Plant Features

• Native perennial wildflower with vibrant purple blooms
• Attracts bees and other pollinators
• Drought-tolerant once established
• Ideal for prairies, meadows, and naturalized gardens
• Provides seasonal color in late spring to early summer

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Tradescantia bracteata
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, average to dry soil
• Water Requirements: Low to medium; drought-tolerant once established
• Growth Habit: Upright, clump-forming
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
• Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer
• Mature Height: 12-24 inches
• Spacing: 12-18 inches apart

Planting & Care

Sow Prairie Spiderwort seeds in a well-drained seed-starting mix, lightly covering them with soil. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs within 2-4 weeks. Once seedlings have several sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots or directly into the garden after the last frost. Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for good air circulation.

Prairie Spiderwort is relatively low-maintenance. Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a deep root system. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms and prevent self-seeding if desired. In late fall, cut back foliage to the ground to prepare for winter dormancy.

What's Included

25 Prairie Spiderwort seeds (Tradescantia bracteata).