The perennial herb known as Moses-in-the-Cradle, scientifically classified as Tradescantia spathacea, is a popular houseplant native to Central America. This plant is also frequently called the Boat Lily or Oyster Plant, names that reference its unique floral structure. The small, white flowers emerge from a pair of boat-shaped purple bracts, visually suggesting the biblical story of Moses nestled in a basket floating on the river. Its widespread appeal is attributed to its striking appearance and low-maintenance nature.
Enhancing Indoor Spaces
The primary draw of the Moses-in-the-Cradle plant is the unique, contrasting coloration of its foliage, which provides visual depth to any indoor setting. Its stiff, lance-shaped leaves grow in a dense, upward-facing rosette, reaching lengths of up to a foot. The upper surface of the leaves is typically a dark green, while the underside is a vibrant, glossy purple due to the presence of anthocyanin pigments. This bi-coloration remains a constant source of interest.
The plant’s structured growth habit means it maintains a tidy, compact form, making it suitable for various display methods. It functions excellently as a floor accent or a centerpiece on a tabletop. Placing the plant where light can pass through the leaves helps accentuate the distinct purple and green contrast.
Resilience and Effortless Care
Tradescantia spathacea is hardy and tolerates a range of conditions, making it an excellent choice for novice plant enthusiasts. It thrives in bright, indirect light, which encourages the most intense purple coloration on the undersides of the leaves. However, it can adapt to lower light environments, though the foliage may become less vibrant and the plant may stretch toward the light source.
The plant exhibits drought tolerance due to its fleshy rhizomes and slightly succulent leaves. Allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry out completely between waterings is the best practice, as overwatering poses a greater risk, potentially leading to root rot. This forgiving nature is beneficial for those who may occasionally forget their watering schedule. Furthermore, this species is generally resistant to common houseplant pests and diseases, requiring minimal intervention to remain healthy.
Impact on Air Quality
The Moses-in-the-Cradle plant is often sought out for its ability to improve indoor air quality by filtering volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This research began with the 1989 NASA Clean Air Study, which explored the capacity of plants to absorb airborne toxins in sealed environments. While Tradescantia spathacea was not on the original list, studies on its close relative, Tradescantia pallida, have shown superior removal efficiency for several common household VOCs, including benzene, toluene, trichloroethylene, and \(alpha\)-pinene, in laboratory settings.
The effect observed in a sealed laboratory chamber is significantly different from that in a typical home with regular air exchange. Natural ventilation is generally far more effective at removing pollutants than a few houseplants. Nevertheless, the physical presence of indoor plants provides documented psychological benefits, contributing to reduced stress and increased feelings of well-being.
Understanding Potential Irritants
While the plant offers numerous benefits, users should be aware that it contains substances that can cause irritation upon contact or ingestion. The sap within the leaves and stems of Tradescantia spathacea contains microscopic, needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals. When the plant material is chewed or the sap contacts sensitive tissue, these crystals can penetrate the skin or mucous membranes.
Exposure to the sap may result in a painful sensation of burning, itching, or localized swelling on the skin. If ingested, the crystals cause immediate and intense irritation to the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat, which can be described as a feeling of biting into ground glass. Due to this potential for irritation, it is advisable to wear gloves when handling the plant for tasks like pruning or propagation. Homeowners with small children or pets should exercise caution and ensure the plant is placed in a location where it cannot be easily reached.