Sweet Kate Spiderwort
Tradescantia occidentalis 'Sweet Kate'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate to high
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Hybrid of North American species
Toxicity
Can cause minor skin irritation in sensitive individuals and mild digestive upset in pets if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Tradescantia 'Sweet Kate' is a clump-forming perennial prized for its brilliant golden-yellow, grass-like foliage. This cultivar features a stunning contrast between its bright chartreuse foliage and its rich, violet-blue, three-petaled flowers that bloom from late spring into summer.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves, typically after 6 weeks.
- Water consistently, keeping soil evenly moist but not soggy.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth.
- Prune lightly in late winter to promote bushiness.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and provide filtered light for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight for healthy foliage
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season
- Prune to shape and remove dead stems
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not expose to direct harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves
- Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture
- Do not neglect pruning which encourages bushiness
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Sweet Kate Spiderwort questions
What zones can Sweet Kate Spiderwort grow in?
Sweet Kate Spiderwort is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Sweet Kate Spiderwort deer resistant?
Yes — Sweet Kate Spiderwort is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Sweet Kate Spiderwort bloom?
Sweet Kate Spiderwort typically blooms in late spring to mid-summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Sweet Kate Spiderwort need full sun?
Sweet Kate Spiderwort does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Sweet Kate Spiderwort drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sweet Kate Spiderwort handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Tradescantia to compare
Virginia Spiderwort
Tradescantia virginiana
Variegated Wandering Jew
Tradescantia pallida 'Variegata'
Carmine Glow Spiderwort
Tradescantia x andersoniana 'Karminglut'
Leonora Spiderwort
Tradescantia x andersoniana 'Leonora'
Concord Grape Spiderwort
Tradescantia x andersoniana 'Concord Grape'
Osprey Spiderwort
Tradescantia x andersoniana 'Osprey'
Keep exploring
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Grow Sweet Kate Spiderwort with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
