Tradescantia (Andersoniana Group) 'JS Brainstorm'

RHS Plant Profile
spider lily 'JS Brainstorm'
Herbaceous Perennial

A compact, clump-forming herbaceous perennial with narrow, upright to arching, slightly fleshy green leaves. Free-flowering, producing three-petalled, vibrant purple-pink flowers in successional clusters from early summer to early autumn

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Commelinaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming, Tufted
Potentially harmful
Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus
Tradescantia can be trailing or tufted perennials with usually fleshy, evergreen foliage and distinctive, 3-petalled flowers
Name Status
Unresolved

How to Grow

Cultivation

Thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Flower production is better in full sun, but light afternoon shade is beneficial in areas with hot summers

Propagation

Propagate by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Deadhead regularly. Plants may be sheared back after the first flush of flowers to encourage fresh new growth

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, vine weevil, slugs and snails

Diseases

May be susceptible to fungal leaf spot and a rust