Scientific Name
Tradescantia spp.
Common Name
Tradescantia, Spiderwort

SKIN IRRITATION MINOR, OR LASTING ONLY FOR A FEW MINUTES.

Characteristics

Family
Commelinaceae
Plant Description
Perennial herb, houseplant or interiorscape plant; leaves alternate and clasping at base, simple, long and grass-like; flowers 3-parted, blue, white or pink-lavender; fruit a capsule.
Origin
USA, NC, Mexico.
Where Found
Forest or natural area in dry woods, uncommon (native species T. virginiana); perennial ornamental plant; houseplant or interiorscape; groundcover in warm areas.
Mode
Dermatitis.
Poisonous Part
Leaves.
Symptoms
Skin irritation with redness and itching, but of low risk.
Toxic Principle
Unidentified, possibly oxalate crystals.
Severity
SKIN IRRITATION MINOR, OR LASTING ONLY FOR A FEW MINUTES.

"Poisonous Plants of North Carolina," Dr. Alice B. Russell, Department of Horticultural Science; Dr. James W. Hardin, Botany; Dr. Larry Grand, Plant Pathology; and Dr. Angela Fraser, Family and Consumer Sciences; North Carolina State University. All Pictures Copyright @1997Alice B. Russell, James W. Hardin, Larry Grand. Computer programming, Miguel A. Buendia; graphics, Brad Capel.

Disclaimer: The list of poisonous plants on this web site does not necessarily include every poisonous plant that is known, or that might be found in an urban landscape or home. North Carolina State University does not advise eating any of the plants included in this web site. The information concerning edibility is taken from the literature, and the degree of reliability is unknown. We discourage the use of any of these plants for self medication. In cases of accidental exposure or ingestion, contact the Carolina's Poison Center at 1-800-848-6946, PO Box 32861 Charlotte, NC 28232-2861. If not in North Carolina contact your local poison control center or a physician.

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