Tradescantia

Tradescantia is a genus of herbaceous perennial flowering plants in the family Commelinaceae.

Tradescantia is a genus of herbaceous perennial flowering plants in the family Commelinaceae. Native to the Americas, it includes species commonly known as spiderworts, inch plants, and wandering dudes. Many species are grown as ornamentals for their trailing stems, variegated foliage, and small three-petalled flowers.

Taxonomy and naming

Tradescantia is a genus in the family Commelinaceae. The name honours the English gardeners and plant collectors John Tradescant the Elder and John Tradescant the Younger.

Distribution and habitat

Species are native mainly to tropical and subtropical parts of the Americas and the Caribbean, with a natural range extending from southern Canada to northern Argentina. They occur in woodland, scrub, disturbed ground, meadows, and other moist or open habitats. The genus is relevant to Canadian readers because it includes species native to southern Canada.

Description

Tradescantia species are herbaceous perennials with fleshy or mucilage-filled leaves, often purple or variegated. Their flowers are short-lived and usually have three petals.

Cultivation and uses

Many species are grown as ornamental plants, including houseplants and groundcovers. Popular species such as Tradescantia zebrina and Tradescantia fluminensis are valued mainly for their foliage. Several species are widely grown in Canadian homes and gardens.

Toxicity and handling

Some Tradescantia species can irritate skin, and ingestion may cause mild mouth or stomach irritation in humans and pets. Reports suggest the reaction may be linked to an unknown irritant, possibly oxalate crystals.