The conspicuously long pointed leaves, which are often finely drawn, make the spiderwort a visual highlight. Even without flowers, this plant looks decorative thanks to its foliage. So that it stays that way for a long time, there are a few things to consider when it comes to room culture.

Not all species of spiderwort are suitable as houseplants

Which species are suitable for indoor culture?

Not all species of spiderwort are suitable for pots and a place in the apartment. However, two types have proven to be suitable in the past:

  • Tradescantia fluminensis: smooth, patterned or red-green leaves, white flowers
  • Tradescantia sillamontana: very hairy leaves, pink flowers

The location in the apartment: bright but not sunny

Normal living room temperatures do not cause any problems for the spiderwort. On the contrary: this tropical plant loves warmth and temperatures between 20 and 25 °C are ideal for it. The following applies: the warmer the living space is, the brighter it should be.

Also noteworthy is:

  • in dark locations, the spiderwort forms long, sparsely leafed shoots
  • prefer to choose a bright location
  • no direct sunlight
  • Varieties with reddish or patterned leaves need more light than green-leaved varieties
  • high humidity is perfect (e.g. bathroom, kitchen)

Water with lime-free water and fertilize regularly

In addition to a suitable location, watering and fertilizing are the top priorities. Pour the plant with lime-free water as soon as the top layer of soil has dried. Fertilize regularly between April and September. Liquid fertilizer is added to the irrigation water every 2 weeks. Dose the fertilizer more sparingly than stated on the packaging!

Beware of spider mites, aphids and gray mold!

Spider mites and aphids are not deterred by the toxins in the spiderwort, but can cloud the appearance. Get rid of the pests as quickly as possible. Gray mold can occasionally occur as a result of diseases. The cause is a substrate that is too moist combined with a location that is too dark.

And in the winter?

In winter the following is on:

  • like to keep it cooler, but not below 10 °C
  • dry heating air is tolerated
  • do not water too much to avoid rot
  • do not fertilize
  • Lack of light causes a balding from below

tips

Since spiderworts don't take offense at care mistakes, they are ideal for beginners.

Category:

Vegetable garden