Rhoeo

Season

Year round indoors

Care

Rhoeo thrive in bright, filtered light. Not suited for intense, direct sun. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light. It is best to take off the wrap or non-draining container and place in a sink when watering to allow it to drain from the bottom of the pot. Once the pot has drained, replace it to its original spot.

Home to Garden

Rhoeo 'Tricolor' prefers full or partial sun in a moist, well-drained location. Provide afternoon shade or dappled shade in very hot climates. They can be planted in USDA zones 9b through 11. Check the soil daily, and water thoroughly when dry.

Flower Meaning

The plant’s common name is taken from the appearance of its flowers. They’re shaped like a little boat or cradle and tucked into the spiky leaves. This brings to mind the biblical story of baby Moses being found in the spiky rushes along the river bank. Other spiritual groups use the plant to represent the hidden power of divinity since the flowers are somewhat hidden.

Fun Facts

Native to southern Mexico and Central America, this evergreen perennial thrives outdoors as a border plant, as ground cover or as a hanging plant. Use caution when working with the Rhoeo. All parts of the plant are poisonous and should be kept out of the reach of children and pets. If eaten, the plant causes lips, mouth and throat irritation, as well as stomach pain. The sap is also an eye and skin irritant, causing stinging and itching. Touching the leaves can result in contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.