Tradescantia sillamontana (White Velvet)

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Tradescantia sillamontana

Botanical name: Tradescantia sillamontana

Common names: White Velvet, White Gossamer, Cobweb Spiderwort

Origin: Northeastern Mexico

Hardiness: 30°F

Tradescantia sillamontana (White Velvet, Cobweb Spiderwort) is a low-growing, drought-tolerant perennial from northeastern Mexico, belonging to the Commelinaceae family. It forms a dense, spreading mat up to 12 18 inches tall and 2 3 feet wide, with thick, succulent stems and oval gray-green leaves entirely covered in white, felt-like hairs. This woolly texture helps reduce moisture loss and protects the plant from intense sun, making it highly suitable for dry and seasonally dry climates. It grows best in full sun to light shade, in well-drained sandy or rocky soil, and tolerates neglect once established. Growth rate is moderate to fast under warm conditions. In summer, it produces small, bright magenta-pink three-petaled flowers nestled among the upper leaves. It is hardy to around 30°F, but foliage may be damaged by frost and will regrow in spring in USDA zones 9 11. Despite its tropical appearance, it has successfully overwintered in USDA zone 7b with proper drainage and light protection. Excellent for containers, raised beds, and dry borders. Not known to be toxic. May resemble some other Tradescantia species, but its dense white hair covering is distinctive.