Plant pickup: Thursdays 3–7pm · Also by appointment 512.348.7570
Plant pickup: Thursdays 3–7pm · Also by appointment 512.348.7570
— Plant Nursery · Texas-Grown
$4.00
Trans-Pecos Spiderwort (Tradescantia brevifolia) is a charming, semi-succulent native perennial ground cover endemic to the Trans-Pecos region of West Texas and northern Mexico, where it grows naturally on rocky, north-facing slopes and mountainsides. Its soft, fleshy, grey-green leaves are distinctly smaller and more compact than other spiderworts, forming a low, spreading carpet that roots readily at every node. From summer through fall, the tips of its trailing stems are adorned with delicate, fragrant, three-petaled pink to light violet flowers that are a special value to native bees. Extraordinarily easy to propagate — any broken stem pressed into moist soil will root — Trans-Pecos Spiderwort spreads quickly to fill shaded, difficult-to-plant areas with lush, living color.
At Flying Rabbit Farm, our Trans-Pecos Spiderwort transplants are grown for vigorous spreading habit and outstanding adaptability to Austin’s shaded beds, container plantings, and low-water landscapes.
Low to moderate water needs once established Drought-tolerant; more moisture-tolerant than many xeric plants Water deeply but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings More frequent watering needed in full sun or containers
Minimal fertilizing needed Light application of balanced organic fertilizer in spring Excess nitrogen produces lush foliage at the expense of compact habit
Trim or pinch back to control spread and encourage dense growth Cut back hard after freeze damage in winter Remove brown or dead stems in early spring before new growth emerges Propagate freely — any stem segment pressed into moist soil will root
Root rot in poorly draining or waterlogged soils Spider mites during extended hot, dry periods Cottontail rabbit browsing (plants recover well once established) Can spread aggressively in moist, favorable conditions; manage spread as needed
One of the most carefree and propagation-friendly ground covers available for Austin’s shaded spots Excellent choice for difficult north-facing beds, under trees, and alongside fences where other plants struggle Root-hardy in Austin winters; may die back to the ground in a hard freeze but regrows reliably in spring Cuttings root effortlessly — simply press a stem into moist soil and keep watered; no rooting hormone needed
New growth emerges vigorously from roots after winter; excellent transplanting window Begin harvesting stems to propagate and fill additional areas
Flowers emerge on stem tips; bloom continues through fall Spreads rapidly in warm conditions; trim as needed to control boundaries
Continued flowering and active spreading Excellent planting window for establishment before winter
May die back to the ground in hard freezes; root system is cold-hardy in Austin Protect roots with light mulch during severe cold snaps
Trans-Pecos Spiderwort is considered mildly toxic to: Dogs Cats
Contact with sap may cause skin irritation or allergic dermatitis in sensitive pets and humans. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea. Keep pets from chewing on plants; contact a veterinarian if significant ingestion occurs.
