Tradescantia subaspera aka Wide Leaf Spiderwort

Tradescantia subaspera is known as zigzag or wide-leaved spiderwort. This herbaceous perennial belongs to the spiderwort family, Commelinaceae. It comes from the central and eastern United States. Wild plants grow in woods, ravines, and beside shaded streams. They also grow near the base of bluffs. Its clumps suit woodland gardens, shade gardens, and naturalized areas. Native bees visit its flowers.

Garden plants reach 2–2.5 feet [0.61–0.76 metres] tall and wide. Some plants reach 3 feet [0.91 metres] in height. Green stems change direction at the leaf joints. Their surface may be smooth or have fine hairs. Cut stems release fine strands that look like spider silk. A mass of fibrous roots supports each clump. The roots sometimes produce offsets. Long, dark green leaves arch down from the stems. They clasp the stems and grow in an alternate pattern. Each leaf folds lengthwise, making a central groove. Leaves reach 1 foot [0.30 metres] long and 0.17 feet [0.05 metres] wide. Their lower surface has a lighter green shade. Fine hairs may grow on either leaf surface.

Flowers appear from late May into early August. Clusters at the stem tips hold many buds. Only a few flowers open at one time. Each has three petals and yellow stamens. Petal shades range from pale blue to deep blue-purple. White flowers also occur. Each flower lasts just one day. It opens in the morning and closes by afternoon. Cloudy weather can keep flowers open for longer. After flowering, small seed capsules form with three chambers. Each capsule holds several flat, oval seeds.

Grow this plant in partial or full shade. It prefers moist, acidic soil that drains well. Rich loam suits it, though it tolerates poor soils. Its growth rate is moderate, and its water needs are moderate. It is hardy in USDA zones 5–9. Divide clumps when they become crowded. Plants may spread by seed where conditions suit them. Leaves often decline and sprawl by midsummer. This can limit their value in a neat border. Cutting spent growth close to ground level encourages fresh leaves. It may also bring another flush of flowers in fall.

Serious pest and disease problems are not reported. Snails may harm young shoots. Deer, rabbits, and box turtles may eat the leaves. The leaves have low-severity poison effects in people and pets. Eating them can irritate the mouth and stomach. Skin contact may cause redness and irritation.