The history of the name “Spiderworts” is greatly disputed. Some people believe that its name comes from the way its flowers hang down like spiders. Others believe it is named for its medical potential since these plants have been used to treat spider bites. Regardless, the Common Spiderwort can be a joy to cultivate and a value to the natural ecosystem.

Tradescantia virginiana is three petaled and ranges from the colors blue-purple. A few rarer varieties can also be pink, white or red. The flowers remain open during the day and close at night. The Common Spiderwort has the ability to adjust and prosper in sunny or shady areas. The soil, however, must be kept moist at all times. The plant has grass-like leaves that can grow up to two-feet high. Common Spiderworts grow in clumps, so in addition to their medical uses, they make good use in borders, edging, woodland gardens and other horticultural applications. You can find Tradescantia Virginiana growing naturally from Maine to the Lower Peninsula of Michigan-South to Georgia. Common Spiderwort petals are edible and can be tossed into a salad. Many folk remedies include cooking the leaves in soups, and using the roots in teas. All parts of this plant are edible and bring medicinal benefits, although non-indigenous peoples too often overlook the medicinal value and privilege its superficial beauty. The Common Spiderwort made its way back to Europe from colonized land, in 1629 where it was cultivated as a garden flower. But before that, indigenous peoples of the Americas had been using the plant for many medicinal and cultural purposes.