Moses-in-a-boat
rhoeo spathacea
Also known as: ["Tragia spathacea","Tradescantia spathacea"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant with fleshy, sword-shaped leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers in boat-shaped bracts.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Commelinales |
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Genus: | Rhoeo |
| Botanical Name: | Rhoeo spathacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or indoor pot in bright, sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; place in a south-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid low-light areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but prefers warmth.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; control size and shape.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Growth slows; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; provide a heat source if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow; soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicRhoeo spathacea is toxic to cats, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal irritation and potential systemic toxicity. Cats may be more sensitive to the plant's compounds, resulting in more pronounced symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicRhoeo spathacea is toxic to dogs, primarily due to the presence of compounds that can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic effects. The plant can lead to more severe symptoms in dogs compared to humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicRhoeo spathacea contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rhoeo spathacea toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Rhoeo spathacea?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Rhoeo spathacea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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