Tradescantia sillamontana (White Velvet)

Tradescantia sillamontana (White Velvet) is an evergreen, erect perennial noted for its oval, stem-clasping, olive to gray-green leaves densely covered with silver-white, woolly hairs. In summer, clusters of small, bright purple-pink flowers are on display for about a month.

Tradescantia sillamontana (White Velvet) is an evergreen, erect perennial noted for its oval, stem-clasping, olive to gray-green leaves densely covered with silver-white, woolly hairs. In summer, clusters of small, bright purple-pink flowers are on display for about a month. Resilient and easy to grow, White Velvet makes a distinctive groundcover in warm winter areas. Where not winter hardy, it is usually grown as a houseplant or in containers.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
  • Grows up to 12 in. tall (30 cm) and 16-20 in. wide (40-50 cm).
  • Easily grown in well-drained soils in sun or partial shade. The more sun and less water this plant gets, the more silver and compact it remains. Water moderately and apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks during the growing season. Water sparingly in winter.
  • Pinch growing tips to encourage bushiness.
  • Cutting the plants back once flowering has ceased can often promote a second bloom and will help prevent re-seeding. Cut the stems back about 8-12 in. (20 to 30 cm) from the ground.
  • Native to Mexico

Requirements

Hardiness 10
– 12

Heat Zones 10
– 12

Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Tradescantia – Spiderworts
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 6"
– 1'
(15cm
– 30cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 16″
– 20″
(40cm
– 50cm)
Water Needs Low, Average
Maintenance Low
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen
Garden Uses Ground Covers, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Mediterranean Garden