Tradescantia virginiana Brevicaulis

Tradescantia virginiana 'Brevicaulis' is an old variety of Virginia spiderwort of uncertain origin, rarely cultivated. It is known for its low requirements, versatility, and beautifully coloured cyclamen pink flowers with yellow stamens. They are not very large, but they bloom for many weeks in summer, as long as the soil remains slightly moist. The plant forms a clump of bright green, narrow, and pointed leaves. Hardy and very easy to grow, this robust perennial is perfect for adding some colour and lushness to partially shaded garden beds and borders, or near a pond. It also thrives in pots. 

Tradescantia virginiana 'Brevicaulis', sometimes called Tradescantia brevicaulis, belongs to the Commelinaceae family. It is a herbaceous perennial plant, deciduous, with growth emerging from the ground in spring and disappearing in winter. This spiderwort forms a dense clump about 50 cm (20in) tall and spreads about 50 cm (20in) wide. Its glossy green foliage consists of simple, long, and narrow leaves tapering to a point, arching and sheathed on a tubular stem. Flowering begins in June and lasts all summer in more or less moist soil. The flowers are triangular, composed of 3 petals of a fairly bright pink, with contrasting yellow stamens, carried on short purplish peduncles. These flowers are gathered in small clusters or cymes, nestled among the foliage. Each flower only 'lives' for a few hours, but they continuously renew themselves.　

You will plant Tradescantia virginiana 'Brevicaulis' in fairly rich garden soil that does not dry out, or even in moist soil. This plant prefers these types of conditions and will truly shine in partially shaded areas, enhancing the flower colour. In full sun, regular and abundant watering will be essential. In a fresh rockery, at the base of a shaded wall, in a woodland area, or in borders, its blooms will brighten up all the small shady spots. This perennial will thrive along the banks of streams or ponds, alongside Carex, Tiarella, Persicaria, Primula bulleyana, or daylilies. It also grows well in pots, in partial shade, with careful watering.