I am a tropical perennial with rosette-forming, sword-shaped leaves. My foliage is green on top and purple underneath, giving me a striking two-tone look.

Native to Mexico and Central America, I am now widely cultivated in India as an ornamental ground cover and indoor plant.

I prefer moderate watering, allowing soil to dry slightly between cycles. Overwatering causes root rot.

I thrive in bright, indirect light. Outdoors, I tolerate full sun but my colors are richer in partial shade.

I flourish in warm climates between 20–30°C. I am sensitive to frost but hardy in tropical zones.

Plant me in well-drained soil, spacing 30–40 cm apart for ground cover. I also grow well in pots.

I respond well to organic compost or balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Botanical name: Rhoeo spathacea (syn. Tradescantia spathacea). Family: Commelinaceae. Common names: Rohio, Moses-in-the-Cradle, Oyster Plant.

I am mildly toxic if ingested by pets, causing stomach upset.

Moderate; I help trap dust and improve indoor microclimates.

I provide ornamental beauty, vibrant foliage, and easy ground cover. My compact growth makes me ideal for borders and pots.

I am prone to mealybugs and fungal rot in overly wet soil.

I can live for many years as a perennial, continuously producing new rosettes.