Rhoeo discolor plant

Rhoeo Discolor is a beautiful ornamental plant prized for its two-toned foliage — green on top and purple underneath. It’s hardy, low-maintenance, and often used as a ground cover, border plant, or even as a houseplant.

General Information

• Scientific name: Tradescantia spathacea 

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

• Type: Evergreen perennial herbaceous plant

• Height/Spread: 1–1.5 ft tall, spreading by clumping

• Flowers: Tiny, white, three-petaled flowers held in boat-shaped purple bracts

 Growing Conditions

• Sun Light: Bright, indirect light; tolerates partial shade. For best leaf color, give it filtered sunlight.

• Soil: Well-draining garden soil 

• Water: Moderate 

• Care 

Pruning: Remove dead/dry leaves to keep plant tidy.

Repotting: Every 2 years, or when clumps become overcrowded.

Fertilizer Needs

1. Type of Fertilizer

• Balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10:10:10 or 20:20:20 NPK) → for steady growth.

• Nitrogen-rich feed occasionally to encourage lush leaves.

• Organic options: Diluted compost tea, seaweed extract, or vermicompost solution.

Uses

• Ornamental ground cover in tropical gardens

• Border edging for pathways

• Attractive indoor plant in pots

• Grown in rock gardens and containers