Tradescantia spathacea
TAXONOMY
FamilyCommelinaceae
GenusTradescantia
Zone10
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Tradescantia spathacea, commonly known as Moses-in-the-Cradle or Boat Lily, is a subshrub native to southern Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. It is known for its striking foliage with green leaves on top and purple underneath. This plant thrives in wet tropical climates and is often grown as a houseplant or in gardens in warmer regions.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Boat Lily
Ephemerum Bicolor
Moses-In-The-Cradle
Ephemerum discolor
Rhoeo discolor
Rhoeo spathacea
Rhoeo spathacea f. concolor
Rhoeo spathacea f. variegata
Tradescantia discolor
Tradescantia discolor var. concolor
Tradescantia discolor var. variegata
Tradescantia versicolor
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature22° C
Humidity70%
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Tradescantia spathacea prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate medium light conditions. It thrives in moderate temperatures and high humidity. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loamy soil. A mix of potting soil with perlite or sand can improve drainage. Ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize monthly during the growing season to support healthy growth. Reduce feeding during the winter months.Repotting
Repot Tradescantia spathacea every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Gently remove the plant, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Propagate this plant through stem cuttings. Take cuttings with at least one node and place them in water or directly into moist soil. Rooting usually occurs within a few weeks. Propagation is best done in spring or early summer.Pruning
Prune the plant to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and trim back leggy stems. Pruning can be done throughout the year as needed.Toxicity
Tradescantia spathacea is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. It can cause irritation to the mouth and digestive tract. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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