Rhoeo (Rhoeo discolor / Tradescantia spathacea)

Rhoeo, commonly known as Moses in the Cradle or Boat Lily, is a hardy and attractive ornamental plant valued for its colorful foliage and compact growth habit. Native to Central America, this plant belongs to the Commelinaceae family and is widely used as a ground cover as well as a decorative potted plant.

The plant features long, narrow, sword-shaped leaves with a glossy deep green surface and a rich purple underside. Its leaves grow in a rosette pattern, giving the plant a tidy, structured look. Rhoeo produces small white flowers that are nestled inside purple, boat-shaped bracts, which give rise to its common name.

Rhoeo is fast-growing, durable, and adaptable, making it ideal for garden beds, borders, containers, and indoor decoration.

Caring for your Rhoeo

Difficulty level: Easy
Light requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Watering schedule: 2–3 times per week (allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings)
Soil type: Well-draining, fertile soil
Humidity: Moderate
Fertilization: Once every 3–4 weeks during growing season
Pruning: Remove old or damaged leaves regularly
Pet friendliness: Mildly toxic if ingested