April 1, 2023

This plant is known as Ohio Spiderwort

The stem contains a sticky goo

When the stem is cut, the goo hardens

And becomes silky thread like spiders use.

Location: Blackpoint Wildlife Drive, MINWF

Sources: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/tradescantia/

Photo and text © 2022 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

May 5, 2022

This is an Ohio Spiderwort

Also known as Bluejacket

But it's purple and looks nothing like a spider

Botany? I don't think I can hack it. 

Location: St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park, Fellsmere

Sources: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=TROH

Photo and text © 2022 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

April 7, 2021

This flower is called BlueJacket

Spiderwort is another of its names

The stamen usually has bluish filament hairs

If they're pink, radiation could be to blame!

Location: Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park

Sources: https://flawildflowers.org/flower-friday-tradescantia/

Photo and text © 2021 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

October 22, 2019

Location: Titusville, Chain of Lakes Park

This flower is known as Bluejacket
It makes a nice ground cover or food for bees
It is a short-lived perennial
And can spread via division or seeds.

Sources: Florida Native Plan Society - Tradescantia ohiensis

Photo and text © 2018 Dee Fairbanks Simpson