Also known as Boat Lily · Boat Plant · Cradle Lily
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Moses-in-the-cradle (Tradescantia spathacea) is a striking evergreen perennial with colorful, sword-shaped leaves. It's valued for its vibrant foliage and ease of care.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers bright, indirect light.
75% intensity
Can tolerate partial shade, but vibrant colors may fade. Avoid direct, intense sunlight.
Keep consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Average room temperatures are ideal.
50% intensity
Prefers between 18-24°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C.
Indoor, Outdoor
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season.
50% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half every 4-6 weeks from spring to summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Sap can cause skin irritation and blistering. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Tradescantia spathacea thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler winter months, but do not let the soil dry out completely. Consistent moisture is key for healthy growth.
Prune to maintain a bushy shape and remove any leggy or dead stems. Pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage fuller growth. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves promptly.
Pruning also helps in propagating new plants from cuttings.
Moses-in-the-cradle is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings, remove the lower leaves, and plant them in moist potting mix or water. Roots will form within a few weeks.
Cuttings can also be taken from basal shoots.
Repot Tradescantia spathacea every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting in spring is ideal to support new growth and replenish soil nutrients.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Moses-In-The-Cradle (Tradescantia spathacea)
Where Moses-In-The-Cradle (Tradescantia spathacea) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Tradescantia |
| Species | Tradescantia spathacea |
Similar in genus Tradescantia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
