This perennial sub-shrub has short branching stems with erect foliage and forms a low rounded habit. It has dull dark green lanced-shaped leaves with a purplish underside and the small white flowers appear in a paired cluster during summer.

Hardiness zones 11 to 12

Rhoeo spathacea is naturally found from the West Indies to southern Mexico and Guatemala growing in well drained moderately fertile moist sandy soils. It prefers a sunny to semi shaded protected position and is frost and drought tender.

Moses in a Basket is grown for its foliage and is planted along low garden borders or used in rockeries for foliage contrast. It establishes in 2-3 years and is moderately long lived. This perennial is also grown as a potted plant for courtyards or around pools. It is commonly used in tropical gardens in the understory or along pathways and is used in commercial landscapes. In cold climates it is grown under glass or in a conservatory. ID 618

Rhoeo (RO-ee-o) spathacea (spath-AY-see-a)

Commelinaceae (ko-mel-ih-NAY-see-ee)
Spiderwort Family