White spiderwort (Tradescantia fluminensis) is a popular plant known for its easy care and attractive trailing growth. It is also called inch plant, wandering willie, or river spiderwort. Its adaptability and decorative foliage make it a favorite for both indoor and outdoor settings.
Identifying White Spiderwort
White spiderwort has oval to lance-shaped, glossy leaves, often deep green. Variegated forms may have white or cream stripes, and undersides can be purplish. These leaves grow densely along soft, hairless stems that trail or creep. Stems are green or purple and root easily at nodes when touching soil.
Small, three-petaled white flowers appear in clusters during spring and summer. Its vigorous, sprawling growth makes it effective as a groundcover or a cascading element in containers.
Caring for White Spiderwort
Light
White spiderwort thrives in bright, indirect light. This lighting encourages vibrant leaf variegation. While it tolerates lower light, insufficient light can cause leggy growth and faded foliage colors. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch leaves and make them look washed out.
Watering
Consistent soil moisture benefits white spiderwort, but avoid waterlogging. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Adequate drainage is important to prevent root rot from overwatering. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Soil
White spiderwort prefers a well-draining, loose potting mix that retains some moisture without saturation. A general houseplant mix works well, especially when amended with perlite or coarse sand for drainage and aeration. It adapts to various soil conditions but performs best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
Temperature and Humidity
White spiderwort thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C). It tolerates average room temperatures but is sensitive to cold; sustained temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can damage leaves. The plant appreciates moderate to high humidity (40-60%). To increase humidity, mist regularly, place it on a pebble tray, or use a humidifier.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring through fall), white spiderwort benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 N-P-K) monthly, diluted to half strength to prevent nutrient burn. Reduce or stop fertilizing entirely during winter when growth slows.
Propagating White Spiderwort
Propagating white spiderwort is simple, primarily through stem cuttings. Select healthy stems 4 to 6 inches long, cutting just below a leaf node. Remove bottom leaves to prevent submersion when placed in water or soil.
Cuttings root effectively in water or moist potting mix. In water, roots emerge within weeks; transfer to soil once a few inches long. Spring and summer are the best times for propagation, as the plant is actively growing.
Common Issues and Solutions
White spiderwort may exhibit leggy growth, indicating insufficient light. Pruning and moving the plant to a brighter location encourage bushier growth. Loss of variegation also points to inadequate light or too much direct sun. Adjusting light exposure restores vibrant patterns.
Brown or crispy leaves signal underwatering or low humidity; increase watering and humidity (e.g., misting or pebble tray). Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering (root rot) or nutrient deficiency. Check soil moisture, ensure drainage, and fertilize appropriately.
Common pests like spider mites and mealybugs can be managed with organic solutions such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Uses and Placement
White spiderwort is a versatile plant for both indoor and outdoor settings. Its trailing habit makes it excellent for hanging baskets, shelves, or elevated containers where stems can cascade. Outdoors, in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-12, it functions as a dense groundcover. Its vigorous spreading nature requires monitoring to prevent invasiveness in some regions. Its rapid growth provides visual interest.
Is White Spiderwort Toxic?
White spiderwort (Tradescantia fluminensis) has mild toxicity. For humans, contact with the sap can cause mild skin irritation (redness or itchiness), especially for sensitive skin. Wear gloves when handling, pruning, or repotting.
Ingesting it can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in humans, though severe poisoning is rare. For pets, ingestion may lead to drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea. These reactions are not severe, but keep white spiderwort out of reach of pets and children.