Smooth Spiderwort
Tradescantia ohiensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Smooth spiderwort is a clumping perennial with grass-like foliage and three-petaled blue to purple flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. Each flower lasts only a day, but new blooms continue opening in succession for months. The plant forms neat colonies and goes dormant in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth Spiderwort is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone, backyard only.
- Can look untidy when flowers fade daily
- May appear weedy to those unfamiliar with native plants
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various pollinators including native bees, butterflies, moths, and beetles. Seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Smooth Spiderwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.