tradescantia spathacea

Oyster plant, Moses-in-a-boat, Cradle lily.

Care level

Easy

The striking purple-burgundy undersides of its leaves create a dramatic contrast with their metallic green tops, forming an elegant upright rosette pattern. Each morning, tiny white flowers nestled in boat-shaped bracts peek out between the leaves, earning it the playful nickname of Moses-in-a-boat.

Care & maintenance

Light

Bright indirect light

Bright light, usually located near windows but doesn't receive direct rays for more than an hour during the day.

Temperature

Wide range (59°F - 86°F)

Fertilization frequency

Low

Once per season.

Humidity & watering

Moderate

Keep the soil slightly moist.

An ambiant humidity between 40 and 70% is recommended.

Soil

Choose a General purpose mix: A versatile blend with excellent water retention and aeration. Provides balanced nutrition and suitable drainage for a wide variety of houseplants.

If you want to create your own substrate, you can make a mixture of the following soils:

Click on the soil name for more information.

Pot

Standard size

Standard size

Prefer a pot with a classic width/depth ratio.

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Features

Size & growth

Medium

Upright

Moderate growth

This plant grows at a moderate rate. It can reach 1 to 3 feet in height or spread.

It grows upwards without support.

Toxicity

Toxicity table by species
Cat
Dog
Human
tradescantia spathacea thumbnail
tradescantia spathacea thumbnail
tradescantia spathacea thumbnail
tradescantia spathacea thumbnail

Reproduction & propagation

Fruits & flowers

Flowering & self-pollinating

The tradescantia spathacea can produce flowers and therefore fruits.
This plant is capable of self-pollination, it does not need another individual to fertilize itself and therefore produce fruits.

Propagation methods

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