Rhoeo Plants

The Rhoeo plant also called Tradescantia spathacea scientifically, bears different names such as Moses-in-the-cradle and oyster plant. This plant is native to Mexico and Guatemala but is cultivated worldwide as an ornamental plant.

It is such a plant that can be placed both indoors and outdoors. It is usually used as a border in gardens. The plant is resilient and adaptable to any condition.

Rhoeo is a beautiful, low-maintenance plant that features brightly colored leaves arranged in a rosette shape. Leaves are green with purple, pink, and white striping.

Rhoeo is the synonym of Tradescantia spathacea. Moses in the Cradle is a rather succulent herb with a dense cluster of sturdy sword-shaped leaves arising from a trunklike stem. The leaves are a dark teal-tinged forest green on top and vivid violet underneath.

Rhoeo is a common border or edging plant in tropical or subtropical gardens. It’s tough and adaptable, suitable for full sun or part shade, across a range of soil types. This plant grows steadily into a clump, eventually covering a large area if left to its devices.

Its colorful foliage makes it a useful plant for adding foliage contrast around the garden.

Although a member of the Commelinaceae (Spiderworts), Rhoeo is NOT invasive like many of its relatives. It will form a clump but lacks the stolons that other Tradescantia use to spread rapidly across the ground. However, like all members of the family, Rhoeo can cause skin irritation in dogs.

This isn’t usually a big issue as dogs aren’t interested in the plant. But if you have pooches that like to go garden diving, perhaps this is not the plant for you. Rhoeo can also sometimes cause skin irritation in humans as well.

As mentioned, Rhoeo is very tough and easy to grow. The only thing that really bothers it is the cold. It is not frosted tolerant and also becomes prone to rotting off if kept too wet in winter. It will sometimes attract mealybug as well, but this is largely seasonal and not a major issue if treated.

There are various cultivars of Rhoeo, the most popular being the dwarf purple form. Others include Stripe-Me-Pink (dwarf varigated), vittata variegata (yellow variegated) and ‘Gold’ (all yellow).

The small white three-petaled flowers are hidden in boat-shaped purple bracts nestled in the leaf axils. Flowers and seed are produced all year. Probably, the boat-shaped bracts with a small white flower in the middle look like an eye.

Common name(s): Moses in the Cradle, Oysterplant, Boatlily, Moses-in-a-boat

Rhoeo, including Rhoeo discolor and Rhoeo, is a plant of many names. Depending on where you live, you may call this plant moses-in-the-cradle, moses-in-a-basket, boat lily, and oyster plant.

Whatever you call it, Rhoeo makes an excellent and fast-growing groundcover in the garden.

Rhoeo plants can be placed in full sun or shade according to one's convenience. It doesn't have any pest issues. Hence it is easy to care for. One thing to consider is that the plant cannot tolerate frost.

Therefore it is suitable to place it indoors during winter and then place it outdoors during the summers. If you are novice in gardening the keeping Rhoeo Plants will give you a good start to understand plants.

The Rhoeo plant also possesses an anti-inflammatory property which is useful for treating nose bleeding. However, people should try it with caution as some people tend to be allergic to it.

Moses-in-the-cradle comes in many variants, some of which are Stripe-me-pink, Vittata Variegata and Gold.

Rhoeo plant varieties have been named after their characteristic colours.
All these varieties are available at Nurserylive. Nurserylive is the go-to place to pamper your inner botanist and nature lover.

We have various categories of plants for both indoors and outdoors. We offer an incredible collection of plants which include plants such as herbs, spice plants, creepers, climbers and ornamental plants. You can find all of these at Nurserylive.com.

Rhoeo care

Rhoeo plants are known for their low maintenance requirements, making them a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardening enthusiasts. To care for your Rhoeo, make sure it receives bright, indirect sunlight and water it when the soil feels dry.

Rhoeo varieties

Rhoeo is a genus of plants that includes several different species, such as Rhoeo discolor and Rhoeo spathacea. Each plant has its own unique characteristics and care requirements.

Rhoeo soil

Rhoeo plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of potting soil, sand, and perlite is ideal for these plants.

Rhoeo pruning

Pruning Rhoeo plants can help maintain their shape and promote healthy growth. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems.

Rhoeo pests

While Rhoeo plants are generally easy to care for, they can be susceptible to pests such as spider mites and mealybugs. Regularly inspect your plant for signs of infestation and treat promptly if necessary.

Rhoeo fertilizer

Rhoeo plants do not require much fertilizer, but can benefit from occasional feeding during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months to promote healthy growth.

Rhoeo propagation

Propagating Rhoeo plants can be done through stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant and rooted in soil or water. Division should be done when the plant becomes overcrowded and can be separated into smaller plants.

Rhoeo lighting

Rhoeo plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can burn their leaves.

Rhoeo humidity

Rhoeo plants prefer high humidity levels and can benefit from being placed near a humidifier or misted regularly.

Rhoeo temperature

Rhoeo plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid placing them near cold drafts or hot air vents.

Rhoeo toxic

Rhoeo plants are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep them out of reach of pets and children.

Rhoeo color

Rhoeo plants can have a range of leaf colors, including green, pink, and purple.

Rhoeo origin

Rhoeo plants are native to tropical regions of Central and South America.

Rhoeo size

Rhoeo plants can range in size from small tabletop plants to large floor plants. Choose a size that fits your space and needs.

Rhoeo water

Rhoeo plants prefer to be on the moist side and can wilt if underwatered. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.

Rhoeo flowering

Rhoeo plants can produce small, inconspicuous flowers in the right conditions. However, they are primarily grown for their attractive foliage.

Rhoeo pattern

Rhoeo plants have a distinct stripe pattern on their leaves, with a mix of green, pink, and purple stripes.

Rhoeo pruning for propagation

Pruning can also be used as a method of propagation for Rhoeo plants. By taking stem cuttings and rooting them in soil or water, you can create new plants and expand your collection.

Rhoeo repotting

Rhoeo plants should be repotted every 1-2 years to provide fresh soil and room for growth. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and fill with fresh potting mix.

Rhoeo symbolism

Rhoeo plants are often associated with resilience and determination. They are known for their ability to thrive in harsh conditions, making them a popular choice for outdoor landscaping in arid climates. Rhoeo plants are also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.