Tradescantia X ‘Sweet Kate’ Spiderwort/Widow’s Tears

Tradescantia x ‘Sweet Kate’ has arching, iris-like, bright chartreuse gold leaves that are folded lengthwise. Terminal clusters of three petaled, royal blue flowers are produced for much of the summer. The spent blooms turn into deep purple drops of liquid, hence the common name, Widow’s Tears. This perennial is easy to grow and can tolerate a wide range situations. Cut back foliage after flowering to encourage fresh leaves and compact growth.

Also known as Spiderwort, Tradescantia has 33 species and is native to most of North America. Various species are naturally found in distinct areas, but many have been introduced into various other parts of North America. Many of the Tradescantia varieties in the trade are crosses of various species.

Tradescantia x ‘Sweet Kate’ prefers part sun or light shade with moist, rich soil, but will tolerate full sun with consistent moisture. It will grow in clay and it can withstand coastal conditions. ‘Sweet Kate’s foliage maintains its best color in some sun.