Tradescantia spathacea, commonly known as Oyster Plant, Moses-in-the-Cradle, or Boat Lily, is a tropical perennial admired for its attractive rosette of sword-shaped leaves with dark green tops and vibrant purple undersides. This plant brings a rich contrast to garden borders, containers, and indoor spaces, where its striking foliage adds a tropical touch. It occasionally produces small white flowers nestled in boat-shaped bracts, giving it its common name, “Moses-in-the-Cradle.”

The Boat Lily is hardy, easy to care for, and adaptable to various light levels, though it shows its best color in bright, indirect light. It’s drought-tolerant once established, requiring only moderate watering, and thrives in well-draining soil.