Tahitian Bridal Veil Plant Guide

The Tahitian bridal veil plant (Tradescantia multiflora), also known as a wandering dude, is a fast-growing perennial herb that belongs to the spiderwort family (Commelinaceae). It is native to Mexico and Central America but has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including Tahiti, where it gets its common name.

This plant is an aggressive invader of natural areas in Hawaii and other Pacific islands. It tolerates a wide range of soils and habitats and can form dense mats that smother native species. Tahitian bridal veil is listed as a noxious weed in Florida and South Carolina.

Appearance

The Tahitian bridal veil plant is a slender, erect herb that can grow up to 2 m (6.6 ft) tall. The leaves are alternately arranged, linear to lanceolate shape, and 30–60 mm (1.2–2.4 in) long by 5–15 mm (0.20–0.59 in) wide. They are dark green with a purplish tinge on the underside and have a hairy surface texture.

The plant produces small white flowers that bloom in clusters at the tips of the stems. Each flower has three petals and six stamens that protrude from the center. The blooming period occurs throughout the year but is most common from spring to summer.

The Tahitian bridal veil is a plant that can be found in many different colors. The leaves can be shades of purple, green, or even brown. The flowers vary in color but are most commonly white or light pink.

Category:	Annual
Available Colors:	White
Bloom Time:	Late spring to autumn
Height Range:	8-18″ (20-46cm)
Space Range:	9-12″ (23-30cm)
Lowest Temperature:	30° to 40°F (-1° to 4°C)
Soil:	Well-drained
Plant Light:	Part Shade
Companion Plants:	Begonia, New Guinea Impatiens, Geranium
USDA Zone:	10-12

Habitat And Range

Tahitian bridal veil plant is found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It prefers moist to wet soil and can grow in the sun and shade.

This species is native to Mexico and Central America but has been widely introduced to other parts of the world, including Tahiti, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, India, Africa, and the United States (Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Hawaii).

Types of Tahitian Bridal Veil Plants:

There are two types of Tahitian bridal veil: the common variety (Tradescantia multiflora) and the dwarf variety (Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Mini’). The common variety is the more aggressive invader, while the dwarf variety is more often used as an ornamental plant.

The common Tahitian bridal veil plant has linear to lanceolate dark green leaves with a purplish tinge on the underside. They are 30–60 mm (1.2–2.4 in) long by 5–15 mm (0.20–0.59 in) wide and have a hairy surface texture. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom in clusters at the tips of the stems. Each flower has three petals and six stamens that protrude from the center. The blooming period occurs throughout the year but is most common from spring to summer.

The dwarf Tahitian bridal veil plant has shorter leaves (20–40 mm or 0.79–1.57 in long) that are a lighter green with no purple tinge on the undersides. The flowers are also smaller (5–10 mm or 0.20–0.39 in wide) and bloom in clusters of 2-3 at the leaf axils (the point where the leaf meets the stem). The dwarf variety is less aggressive than the common variety and is often used as an ornamental plant.

Tahitian Bridal Veil Plants Uses:

Tahitian bridal veil plants are often used as ornamental plants because of their showy flowers and colorful leaves. They can be grown in gardens, pots, or groundcover. However, because they are aggressive invaders, they should not be planted in natural areas where they could displace native species.

They are used for traditional medicinal purposes in some parts of the world. For example, in India, the leaves treat diarrhea and dysentery. In Mexico, a decoction of the leaves is taken to treat respiratory problems such as bronchitis and Asthma.

How to Plant Tahitian Bridal Veil?

When planting Tahitian bridal veil plants, choosing a location that is sunny or partially shady and has well-drained soil is important. The plants can be started from seeds, cuttings, or divisions.

If you are starting from seed, sow the seeds in a warm, sunny location and keep the soil moist until they germinate. Once the seedlings have 2-3 leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or the garden.

If you are starting from cuttings, take 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) stem cuttings from a healthy plant and root them in moist sand or vermiculite. Once the roots have developed, transplant the cuttings into individual pots or the garden. If you are dividing an existing plant, dig up the entire plant and use a sharp knife to divide it into smaller clumps. Replant the clumps immediately in individual pots or in the garden.

Pests and Diseases Of Tahitian Bridal Veil:

Tahitian bridal veil plants are susceptible to several pests and diseases. The most common pests are aphids, scale insects, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

The most common disease is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes a white powdery fungus to grow on the leaves and stems of the plant. Powdery mildew can be controlled with fungicidal sprays.

Another potential problem is root rot. This is caused by overwatering or planting in poorly-drained soil. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring the plant has good drainage and not watering it too often.

If you notice any problems with your plant, please contact a professional for advice on how to treat the problem.

 How to Take Care of the Tahitian Bridal Veil Plant?

While the Tahitian bridal veil plant is relatively easy to care for, there are a few things you need to do to keep it healthy and looking its best.

Here are some tips on how to take care of Tahitian bridal veil plants:

• Light: The Tahitian bridal veil plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. If you live in an area with very strong sun, you may need to filter the light with a sheer curtain or place the plant in a spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade.
• Water: This plant likes to be kept moist but not soggy. Water it when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to drain holes in the bottom of the pot so that the roots don’t become waterlogged.
• Temperature: The Tahitian bridal veil plant prefers warm temperatures and will not tolerate cold drafts. If you live in a cool climate, you may need to place the plant near a heat source such as a radiator or heater vent.
• Soil: This plant prefers well-draining, sandy soil. You can add perlite or vermiculite to regular potting soil to help drainage.
• Fertilizer: Feed the Tahitian bridal veil plant monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Be sure to dilute the fertilizer according to the package directions, so you don’t damage the roots.

With a little care, your Tahitian bridal veil plant will thrive and provide you with beautiful flowers for many years.

How to Use Tahitian Bridal Veil Plant in Your Home or Garden

Tahitian Bridal Veil Plant can be used in several ways in the home or garden. It makes an excellent ground cover or edging plant, and the plant can also be grown in hanging baskets. Tahitian Bridal Veil Plant is also sometimes used in flower arrangements.

To use Tahitian Bridal Veil Plant as a groundcover, plant it in an area where it will receive full sun to partial shade. Space the plants 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart. The plant will spread quickly and cover the ground within a few months.

Space the plants 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) apart to use Tahitian Bridal Veil Plant as an edging plant. The plant will form a dense border within a few weeks.

Choose a basket with a wide opening to grow Tahitian Bridal Veil Plant in hanging baskets. Fill the basket with a well-drained potting mix and plant 1-2 plants per basket. Water the plants regularly and fertilize them every 2-3 weeks.

These can also be used in flower arrangements. The small white flowers add a delicate touch to bouquets and centerpieces. It can also be dried and used in dried flower arrangements.

No matter how you choose to use it, It is a versatile plant that will add beauty to your home or garden.

Conclusion

The Tahitian bridal veil plant is a beautiful, easy-to-care-for plant that can add interest to any home or garden. With its delicate flowers and lush foliage, the Tahitian bridal veil plant is perfect for use as a groundcover, edging plant, or hanging basket. The plant can also be used in flower arrangements. With a little care, this plant will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment.