Moses-in-the-Cradle
Tradescantia spathacea
Tricolor
About this plant
Tradescantia spathacea, commonly known as Moses-in-the-Cradle, is a striking plant with sword-shaped leaves that are green on top and purple underneath. It is popular as a houseplant and ground cover due to its colorful foliage and easy care. The plant produces small, boat-shaped flowers nestled in leaf bracts, which resemble a cradle, hence the common name.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Tradescantia
- Family
- Commelinaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Commelinales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southern Mexico, Central America
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated worldwide as an ornamental plant, native to southern Mexico and Central America.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-26 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting soil mix
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows down.
Tradescantia spathacea is a tough and easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in moderate light and tolerates some shade. It prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. It is generally low-maintenance and resistant to common pests and diseases.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Colorful sword-shaped leaves with green tops and purple undersides; small boat-shaped flowers in spring.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The sap can cause mild skin irritation; keep away from pets and children to avoid ingestion, which may cause stomach upset.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Tradescantia spathacea may cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to its sap. People with plant allergies should handle it with care and wear gloves when pruning or repotting. Avoid ingesting any part of the plant.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot and yellowing leaves. Too little light may cause the plant to lose its vibrant color. Occasionally, spider mites or aphids may appear but are usually easy to control.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage indoors and in gardens. Also used as ground cover in suitable climates.
Notes
Prune occasionally to remove dead leaves and maintain shape. Repot every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Sensitive to cold temperatures below 10°C (50°F).