Tradescantia andersoniana 'Sweet Kate'

– Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

– Flowers provide nectar and pollen in early to mid-summer

– Spring: foliage emerges golden; blooms begin late spring

– Summer: peak flowering; may slow in heat unless rejuvenated

– Fall: some reblooming possible; foliage remains ornamental

– Winter: dies back to ground in cold zones

– Shade gardens

– Borders and edges

– Color contrast in mixed perennial beds

– Woodland gardens

– Bright chartreuse-gold, grass-like foliage

– Long, arching, sword-shaped leaves

– Stunning color contrast with violet flowers

– Foliage may decline in midsummer heat unless cut back and watered

– Clusters of vivid violet-blue flowers with three petals and prominent yellow stamens

– Flowers open in morning and fade by afternoon, with new blooms daily

– Blooming period: late spring to midsummer (May–July)

– Often reblooms in late summer if cut back and watered

– Plant in early spring or early fall for optimal root establishment

– Space 12–18 inches apart to allow mature clump expansion

– Prefers moist, well-drained soil—can tolerate average garden soils

– Performs well in borders, rain gardens, or woodland edges

– Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

– Shear entire plant back to 4–6 inches after initial bloom to rejuvenate foliage and encourage rebloom

– Deadhead spent flowers if desired, though not essential

– Remove yellowing or damaged leaves throughout the season

– Prefers consistently moist soil, especially in full sun

– Tolerates short dry periods once established, but best with regular watering

– Ideal for rain gardens, wet borders, or alongside ponds

– Thrives in full sun to part shade

– Full sun enhances flowering; part shade protects foliage from scorching in hot climates

– In hot southern zones, best with afternoon shade

– Not typically harvested for floral use, as blooms are short-lived

– Can be cut for short-term arrangements or use in edible flower décor

– Best appreciated in garden settings

– Apply compost or balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring

– Optional midseason light feeding if rebloom is desired

– Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages weak foliage

– Pollinated by bees and hoverflies

– Grown primarily for ornamental value; self-fertile

– Hosta – large leaves complement Tradescantia’s upright blooms

– Astilbe – for moist shade gardens and contrasting texture

– Ferns – enhance woodland appearance and share moisture preferences

– Heuchera – colorful foliage contrast and similar size

– Iris versicolor – shares water and sun preferences