Boat Lily Tradescantia spathacea

Oyster plant is a clumping, broadleaf evergreen, herbaceous perennial houseplant in the spiderwort family (Commelinaceae). Its native range is southern Mexico to Guatemala. It grows 6 inches to 1 foot tall and 1 to 2 feet wide. It was formerly known as Rhoeo spathacea and is still found listed under that name. The specific epithet, spathacea, means "with a spathe." This references the spathe-like or boat-shaped bracts that hold the flowers.

Plant the oyster plant in well-drained potting media and give it plenty of bright indirect light. When the plant does not receive enough light, it may stretch out and become lanky, or its purple leaves may revert back to green. In zones 9 and higher, it can grow outdoors where it will form a dense mat groundcover. If kept outdoors in the summer, provide it with afternoon shade. As a container plant, allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings and cut back on water during the winter. This low-maintenance plant may bloom at any time of the year, and it is easy to propagate by seed, division or stem cutting. 

The oyster plant is desired for its attractive foliage. The plant grows in a tall rosette with linear or lanceolate leaves that are stiff and sword-like. The upper surface is dark green and purple on the undersides. Sometimes the upper leaf surface may be green with pale yellow stripes. The unusual inflorescences and small white flowers are a bonus. Purple boat-shaped bracts enclose the white flowers. They are followed by a dry, 2-seeded capsule. 

Grow the oyster plant in a container that can be moved inside when there is the threat of frost. This species grows upward instead of down, so it will not work well in a hanging basket. but beware that it naturalizes easily and tends to become weedy. 

Quick ID Hints

• 6- to 12-inch-tall rosette, narrow leaves, spirally arranged
• dark green, linear or lanceolate leaves with purple undersides 
• white flowers that are enclosed in boat-shaped, purple bracts

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor for mealybugs, whiteflies, and spider mites. Overwatering can cause root rot. Other possible diseases include fungus and leaf spot. 

If ingested, the oyster plant is toxic to humans and pets. Keep this plant out of reach of small children and pets. The sap of this plant can also cause contact dermatitis for both humans and pets. Wearing protective gloves are recommended when handling this plant. 

More information on Tradescantia.