Moses-in-a-Basket, Boatlily or Oyster Plant

(Tradescantia spathacea)

~ By Jus Kuntree ~

Now wasn't that a mouthful! I wasn't really familiar with these plants till one day while visiting my sister. She had numerous ones in pots here and there, some she'd put outside for the summer. And bless her heart, she sent several home with me!

I must admit, it was love at first sight, and I was totally intrigued by the tiny blossoms, tucked away inside the little "baskets" growing amidst the leaves. I considered them a great addition to my meager collection of houseplants.

Now I must discover how to care for these plants, and see just what needs they have, so I can tend them with the proper love.

The base, or trunk, of the plant is rather thick, and from it arises the bladelike leaves. One interesting thing about the leaves is that they are green on top, and purple on the underneath. Neat! The baskets that contain the three petal blooms, are nestled at the base of the leaves. They will produce flowers all year round, followed by the seeds, which you can harvest and plant, or you can start new plants from cuttings. Care should be given when handling the plants as the sap may cause irritation where it comes into contact with the skin.

First I discovered that they are a kind of succulent herb, so right away I'm thinking I want to be careful not to over water. However I find that they do like moist soil. They are a fairly hardy plant, and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. However, a good quality potting soil is best when growing in pots. They will tolerate full sun, but a little shade is preferred.

One word of warning, in some states/areas, these are considered invasive plants, so check on the list of those in your area before growing these, particularly if in a climate where they can be grown outside. Even when kept in pots, if placed outside in the warmer months, keep in mind when the flowers go to seed, they can lose those seeds outside of the pot and into surrounding soil.

Well it's been several months now since I brought my plants home, and I'm happy to say they are doing beautifully! I've even started a couple more of them from cuttings. Next adventure, I'll try planting some seeds!



Here are some links about this plant:

http://www.webgardenguide.com/Tradescantia_spathacea_3008_569_2.html

http://www.hear.org/starr/hiplants/images/thumbnails/html/tradescantia_spathacea.htm

http://www.plantoftheweek.org/week248.shtml

http://www.floridata.com/ref/T/trad_spa.cfm

         

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