
Plant : spiderwort
Spiderwort (Tradescantia (Andersoniana Group) 'Mariella') is a stunning and easy to grow plant with bright pink/purple flowers. It grows in clumps to a height of 1-3ft and 12-18" wide. Its foliage remains attractive all year round, with pointed, lance-shaped leaves. It prefers partial to full shade and will tolerate drought or moist soil conditions. Furthermore, spiderwort attract butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden and it's a great choice for borders, mixed beds, and containers. It's reliable and requires minimal maintenance to look its best, making it a favorite among avid gardeners.
Read MorePlant Care Essentials:




Plant Profile:
- Scientific Name: Tradescantia (Andersoniana Group) 'Mariella'
- Size: 1.00 to 1.50 feet
- Plant Family: Commelinaceae
- Care: Moderate
- Drought Tolerant: Yes
- Poisonous To Humans: No
- Plant Type: Herb
- Light Requirements: full sun
- Pruning Month: March
- Fruits: No
- Tropical: No
- Indoor: Yes
- Flower Color: Blue
- Plant Origin: Mexico
- Growth Rate: Low
- Poisonous To Pets: No
- Edible Fruit: No
Care Instructions:
Tradescantia (Andersoniana Group) ‘Mariella’, commonly known as Spiderwort, is a beautiful perennial plant recognized for its soft lavender to pale blue flowers and graceful, arching green foliage. This variety blooms profusely from late spring to early summer, adding a delicate splash of color to gardens, borders, and containers. ‘Mariella’ is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in partial shade, making it a versatile choice for brightening up shaded garden areas.
Light
‘Mariella’ Spiderwort thrives in partial shade to full sun. For optimal flowering and vibrant foliage, place it in a location where it receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade. While it can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler climates, too much direct sunlight in hotter regions may cause leaf scorch.
Water
Water your ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season (spring and summer), ensure the soil remains evenly moist, particularly during dry periods. In the fall and winter, reduce watering slightly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Soil
‘Mariella’ Spiderwort prefers well-draining, fertile soil. A loamy or sandy soil mix with good organic content is ideal. If your garden soil is heavy or clay-based, consider amending it with compost or sand to improve drainage. This plant adapts well to various soil types as long as proper drainage is provided.
Temperature
The optimal temperature range for ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort is between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C). It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, meaning it can tolerate a range of temperatures, including light frost. In colder climates, the plant may die back to the ground in winter but will typically reemerge in the spring.
Humidity
‘Mariella’ Spiderwort prefers moderate to high humidity levels but can tolerate a range of humidity conditions. If grown indoors or in a dry climate, occasional misting can help maintain humidity and keep the foliage looking lush. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues, especially in high humidity environments.
Fertilizer
Feed your ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring through early fall). Regular feeding encourages healthy growth and abundant flowering. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers, so be cautious with fertilization.
Best Placement Ideas
- Garden Borders: ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort is ideal for garden borders, where its delicate blooms can create a soft, colorful edge. It works well when paired with other shade-tolerant perennials for a layered garden bed.
- Containers: This plant thrives in containers, where its graceful, arching stems and lovely flowers can add interest to patios, balconies, or entryways. Ensure the container has good drainage and place it in a spot with partial shade for the best results.
- Woodland Gardens: ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort is perfect for woodland gardens, where it can thrive under the dappled shade of trees. Its light-colored flowers provide a beautiful contrast to the green foliage of surrounding plants.
Common Issues
Pests: ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort is generally resistant to pests but can occasionally attract spider mites, aphids, or slugs. Regularly inspect the leaves for any signs of pests, such as sticky residue, webbing, or small insects. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent them from spreading.
Diseases: Overwatering or poor air circulation can lead to fungal diseases, such as root rot or leaf spot. Ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid letting the plant sit in water. If you notice yellowing leaves, mushy roots, or dark spots, it may indicate a fungal issue. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering to help prevent these problems.
Things to Watch Out For
Watch for signs of stress, such as yellowing or browning leaves, which may indicate improper watering, low humidity, or inadequate light. If the plant’s growth slows or the leaves start to lose their vibrant color, consider adjusting its care routine to better meet its needs. Additionally, ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort can become leggy if it doesn’t receive enough light, so regular pruning may be necessary to keep it looking full and healthy.
Propagation Tips
Propagation Method: ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort is easily propagated through division or stem cuttings. To propagate by division, dig up the plant in early spring or fall and carefully separate the clumps into smaller sections, each with roots attached. Replant the divisions at the same depth as the original plant. To propagate by cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem, remove the lower leaves, and place the cutting in water or directly into moist soil. Roots should develop within a few weeks, and the new plant can then be transplanted into its own pot.
Best Time to Propagate: The best time to propagate ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. This timing allows the new plants to establish roots and grow during the most favorable conditions.
Maintenance Tips
Pruning: Pruning your ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort involves trimming back any leggy or unruly stems to maintain its appearance and encourage bushier growth. Regular pruning helps control the plant’s size and shape and can also stimulate more vigorous growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Repotting: ‘Mariella’ Spiderwort should be repotted every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil. Repotting is best done in early spring before the growing season begins to give the plant time to adjust.
Did You Know? 
Tradescantia ‘Mariella’ is distinguished by its soft lavender flowers and green foliage. This attractive perennial prefers full sun to partial shade and is ideal for garden beds, borders, or containers, offering a delicate touch of color and charm.
Popular Questions
This property is mostly wooded and sits high on a hilltop overlooking the Mohawk River Valley. Located right in the heart of Upstate NYs Amish farm CountryThis property is mostly wooded and sits high on a hilltop overlooking the Mohawk River Valley. Located right in the heart of Upstate NYs Amish farm Country
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