Rhoeo Tricolor

Description

1. Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Tradescantia spathacea ‘Tricolor’

• Common Names: Rhoeo Tricolor, Moses-in-the-Cradle Tricolor, Oyster Plant, Boat Lily

• Family: Commelinaceae

• Type: Perennial ornamental plant (grown as indoor & outdoor foliage plant)

2. Origin & Distribution

• Native to Central America and Mexico.

• Widely grown as an ornamental foliage plant in tropical and subtropical regions.

• Popular for its variegated leaves and easy adaptability as a ground cover or potted plant.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Height & Spread: Compact, grows 30–45 cm tall and spreads up to 30 cm wide.

• Leaves: Sword-shaped, variegated in shades of green, pink, white, and purple; underside often deep purple.

• Flowers: Small, white flowers nestled in purple boat-shaped bracts (“cradles”).

• Growth Habit: Dense, clump-forming, low-maintenance ornamental.

4. Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight; tolerates partial shade but variegation is more vibrant in bright light.

• Soil: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with organic matter.

• Watering: Moderate; water when topsoil feels dry. Overwatering may cause root rot.

• Temperature: Thrives in 18°C–30°C; frost-sensitive.

• Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity; does well in normal household conditions.

5. Maintenance & Care

• Pruning: Trim dead or faded leaves to encourage fresh growth.

• Fertilization: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring & summer).

• Pests/Diseases: May attract aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites if neglected.

• Propagation: Easily propagated by stem cuttings or division of clumps.

6. Uses & Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Loved for its tricolor variegated foliage, making it a popular indoor plant and ground cover.

• Air Purification: Helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing toxins.

• Landscape Plant: Used for borders, beds, and pots in gardens.

• Cultural Beliefs: In some traditions, considered a symbol of protection and prosperity.

7. Lifespan

• A hardy perennial that can thrive for several years with proper care, continuously producing new shoots and vibrant leaves.