Moses-in-the-cradle
Tradescantia spathacea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
FL, LA
Moses-in-the-cradle is a compact perennial groundcover with distinctive purple undersides on its thick, lance-shaped leaves. The small white flowers are nestled in boat-shaped bracts, creating an interesting architectural look. This low-growing plant maintains a neat, clumping habit and provides year-round color in shaded areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Moses-in-the-cradle is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
While not a major pollinator plant, the small flowers may attract occasional small bees and beneficial insects. The dense foliage can provide shelter for small wildlife like lizards and ground-dwelling insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Moses-in-the-cradle need?
- Moses-in-the-cradle grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Moses-in-the-cradle bloom?
- Moses-in-the-cradle blooms in March, April, May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Moses-in-the-cradle native?
- Moses-in-the-cradle (Tradescantia spathacea) is native to FL, LA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Moses-in-the-cradle HOA-friendly?
- Moses-in-the-cradle is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Moses-in-the-cradle? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz