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Tradescantia spathacea
filter_vintage Commelinaceae Plants yard Indoor plants

Tradescantia spathacea

Oyster Plant, Boat Lily

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Compact perennial herb with purple-green foliage and white bracts. Popular indoor hanging plant known for easy care and rapid growth, featuring distinctive boat-shaped leaves.
yard Indoor plants wb_sunny Half-shade / Sun pets Not pet-safe
info Pot sizes shown are estimations. Real dimensions may vary depending on the merchant.
Merchant Pot Size Availability Price
Amazon.com - In Stock $17.86 Buy
Amazon.com - In Stock $26.50 Buy
Merchant Pot Size Availability Price
Amazon.com 2-3 in Out of Stock $9.95 Buy
Merchant Pot Size Availability Price
Amazon.com 3-4 in In Stock $10.78 Buy
Amazon.com 3-4 in Out of Stock $16.97 Buy
info

Plant Details

Common Name Oyster Plant, Boat Lily
Family Commelinaceae
Genus Tradescantia
Species Spathacea
Origin Mexico
Blooming White flowers appear in summer, often hidden by bracts.
Leaf Color Green and purple (underside)
Sunlight Half-shade / Sun
Category Indoor plants
Pet Friendly close No
yard

Care & Maintenance

terrain
Soil

Well-draining potting mix with peat or perlite

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Watering

Keep soil moderately moist but not waterlogged. Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.

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Sunlight & Care

Prefers bright indirect light; direct sun may scorch leaves. Purple color intensifies in brighter spots.

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Fertilization

Monthly during growing season (spring/summer) with balanced liquid fertilizer

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Pruning

Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; remove dead leaves

Pest Control Aphid Mealybug Spider Mite

These are the insects and pathogens that commonly interact with this plant, including pests, parasites, and organisms typically associated with its care.

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Seasonal Periods

local_florist Flowering Period 3 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
eco Leaf Persistence 12 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
thermostat

Growing Parameters

thermostat
Temperature
59° – 86°
Fahrenheit
Ideal ambient air temperature range for healthy growth
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Humidity
40% – 70%
% relative
Optimal relative air humidity the plant thrives in
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Light (LUX)
800 – 20000
Lux
Ambient illuminance level at the plant's surface
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Light (PAR)
1200 – 3500
mmol/m²/s
Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intensity
water
Soil Moisture
25% – 60%
% volumetric
Water content in the growing medium
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Soil EC
300 – 1800
mS/cm
Electrical conductivity (nutrient concentration in soil water)
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Common Problems

Something wrong with your Tradescantia spathacea? Select a symptom to diagnose and fix the issue.

eco Drooping Leaves chevron_right
eco Leggy Stems chevron_right

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