Another common name for spiderwort is inchplant. This name is often used because the stems of the plant are typically about an inch in diameter. The name inchplant is also a reference to the plant’s ability to easily propagate and spread, as even small sections of stem can take root and grow into new plants. This trait can make spiderwort somewhat invasive in certain environments.
In addition to inchplant and spiderwort, another common name for this genus is dayflower. This name refers to the fact that the flowers of spiderwort typically bloom for only one day before withering and being replaced by new flowers. This short lifespan of the flowers is a characteristic shared by many plants in the Commelinaceae family, to which spiderwort belongs.
The name dayflower can also be attributed to the appearance of the flowers themselves. The petals of spiderwort flowers are often a vibrant blue or purple color, which can resemble the color of the sky on a sunny day. This resemblance to the color of the sky may have contributed to the name dayflower.
Spiderwort is a versatile and resilient plant that has adapted to a wide range of environments. It can be found in various habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and even along roadsides. The plant’s ability to thrive in different conditions has led to its widespread distribution across the Americas, from southern Canada to northern Argentina.
As an avid gardener, I have had personal experiences with spiderwort in my own backyard. I initially planted it as a ground cover to fill in some empty spaces in my flower beds. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it established itself and began spreading. The inch-thick stems and vibrant blue flowers added a beautiful touch to my garden.
However, I soon realized that the plant’s vigorous growth and ability to self-propagate could be both a blessing and a curse. While it filled in the empty spaces nicely, it also began encroaching on other plants in the area. I had to keep a close eye on its growth and regularly trim back the stems to prevent it from taking over.
Despite its invasive tendencies, spiderwort remains a popular choice for many gardeners due to its attractive flowers and ease of care. Its ability to tolerate a wide range of conditions, from full sun to partial shade, makes it a versatile addition to any garden. Whether called spiderwort, inchplant, or dayflower, this genus of wildflowers continues to captivate with its beauty and resilience.