The Moses in the Cradle plant (Tradescantia spathacea) is a captivating indoor perennial, prized for its distinctive appearance and straightforward care. This tropical plant showcases sword-shaped leaves, typically dark green on top and vibrant purple underneath, forming an attractive rosette. Its common name comes from its unique small white flowers, nestled within boat-shaped, often purplish bracts, resembling a baby in a cradle.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Moses in the Cradle plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which maintains vivid leaf coloration. Ideal conditions are often found near north or east-facing windows. While it tolerates some morning or late afternoon sun, intense midday sun can scorch leaves or fade colors. Insufficient light can lead to leggy stems and diminished purple hues, making leaves greener.
Watering
Proper watering prevents issues like root rot, to which this plant is susceptible if the soil remains waterlogged. It prefers consistently moist soil, but allow the top inch or two to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, and always discard any excess water in the saucer. During the active growing seasons of spring and summer, more frequent watering is needed, while frequency should be reduced in fall and winter as growth slows.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic soil mix (pH 6.1-6.5) is suitable. Enhance common potting mixes with perlite, sand, or coco coir for improved drainage and aeration, crucial for root health. Use pots with adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. Terracotta or ceramic pots are often recommended as they help excess moisture evaporate.
Temperature and Humidity
This tropical plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 60-85°F (16-29°C), and is sensitive to cold. Keep the plant away from drafts, air conditioning vents, or cold windows. Moses in the Cradle plants appreciate moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 40-70%. In dry indoor environments, especially during winter, increasing humidity can be beneficial through methods such as using a pebble tray, a room humidifier, or occasional misting.
Fertilizing
Moses in the Cradle plants benefit from regular fertilization during their active growing season, typically spring and summer. A balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer with an NPK ratio like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, diluted to half strength, is generally recommended. Fertilize monthly or every 2-4 weeks during this period. Fertilization should be reduced or stopped completely in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Pruning and Repotting
Pruning for Health and Shape
Pruning the Moses in the Cradle plant helps maintain its shape and encourages bushier growth. The primary reason for pruning is to remove any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves, which can harbor pests or diseases. Using sharp, sterilized shears for clean cuts is important to prevent the spread of disease. While pruning can be done as needed, spring or early summer during the active growing season is often a good time for more significant shaping.
When and How to Repot
Repotting is typically needed when the plant has outgrown its current container, indicated by roots growing out of drainage holes or the plant becoming top-heavy. Young plants may require annual repotting, while more mature plants usually need repotting every 2-3 years. The best time to repot is in the spring. When repotting, choose a container that is one to two inches larger in diameter than the previous one and ensure it has drainage holes. Gently remove the plant, inspect the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix, maintaining the same planting depth.
Propagating Moses in the Cradle
Propagating Moses in the Cradle plants is simple, allowing new plants from existing specimens. Stem cuttings are a common and effective method.
To propagate using stem cuttings, select a healthy stem section that is about 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, exposing a few nodes where roots can emerge. The cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone, though this is optional. The cutting can then be placed directly into moist, well-draining potting mix or in a glass of water. If rooting in water, change the water regularly to prevent bacterial growth. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, and once established, the new plant can be potted in its own container.
Common Issues and Solutions
Leaf Discoloration
Yellowing leaves are often a sign of overwatering, particularly if the soil remains soggy, leading to root rot. If leaves are yellowing and mushy, check the root system for signs of rot and adjust watering habits. Brown leaf tips or edges can indicate low humidity or underwatering. Ensuring adequate humidity and consistent, appropriate watering can help resolve these issues. Splashing water directly onto the foliage, especially in combination with low temperatures, can also cause leaves to yellow and rot.
Pests
While generally resistant, Moses in the Cradle plants can occasionally attract common houseplant pests such as spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites may create fine webbing on leaves and cause stippling, while mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses. Regularly wiping down the leaves with a damp cloth can help prevent infestations. For active infestations, organic options like neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used, and affected plants should be isolated to prevent spreading.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth appears as stretched-out stems and sparse foliage. To prevent this, provide bright, indirect light for 6-8 hours daily, which encourages bushier, more compact growth. Pruning leggy stems can also promote new, fuller growth.
Important Considerations
When caring for a Moses in the Cradle plant, be aware of its toxicity. All parts of the Tradescantia spathacea plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation if ingested. This plant is considered toxic to cats, dogs, and children, and can also cause skin irritation upon contact for some individuals. Wearing gloves when handling the plant is recommended, and it should be kept out of reach of pets and small children.