Moses-in-a-boat, boat lily, oyster plant
tradescantia spathacea
Also known as: ["Tradescantia zebrina","Tradescantia fluminensis"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant with attractive, variegated foliage and a spreading growth habit, native to Mexico and the West Indies.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Commelinales |
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Genus: | Tradescantia |
| Botanical Name: | Tradescantia spathacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"13–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can tolerate standard potting soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may lose variegation.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun; supplement with grow lights if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure proper drainage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to frost.
Protect from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; avoid extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to avoid burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; division of rhizomes is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water; perlite or sand can improve aeration.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 1–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier habit; trim to maintain shape and size.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged leaves; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes growth and prevents root binding.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration in excessive heat, especially with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicTradescantia spathacea can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in cats due to its saponin content. Ingestion is unlikely to be fatal but may cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe plant contains saponins that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. While not life-threatening, ingestion may result in temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTradescantia spathacea contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested. The plant is not considered highly toxic to humans, but ingestion may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tradescantia spathacea toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Tradescantia spathacea?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Can Tradescantia spathacea grow in low light?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions, though growth may slow.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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