Spiderwort
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The Tradescantia genus contains about thirty different species that grow everywhere in the United States, with the exception of the Pacific Northwest.
The top picture shows a Tradescantia species with the typical three petals and six yellow anthers.
Tradescantai, along with the Dayflower (Commelina erecta), a very common species east of the Rocky Mountains are edible, with the greens used for salads. The flowers are also edible, but since they only stay in bloom for a day, the greens have always received more attention.
It's important to note that not every Commelinaceae species is edible. As with the case of mushrooms, if there's any doubt, leave it out.
© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels