smooth spiderwort

Plant Type

Herbaceous Wildflower

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

2-3 ft. tall
1.5-2.5 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Drought

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil

Propagation

By seed, By cutting, By division

Plant Propagation Notes

Seeds require cold moist stratification. Cuttings can be taking any time during the growing season. Divide clumps in early spring or early fall.

Plant Planting Notes

Plants can tolerate part shade, but may become leggy and not flower as profusely. Plant in an area where reseeding can be tolerated.

Plants/Diseases

No significant disease or pest issues.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects

Leaves

Leaves alternate, lanceolate to linear with entire margins. Blue-green hue.

Flowers

Three-petaled deep blue/purple flowers arranged in a cyme or raceme.

Fruit

Capsule.

Toxicity

No known toxicity.

USDA Hardiness Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Disturbed areas such as roadsides as well as woodlands, forests, and alluvial bottoms.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Common in the South Carolina coastal plain, sandhills, and piedmont. Rare in the mountains.