[Plant-biology] Re: What kind of house plant is this?

[monique]

cindy.shumake at cox.net wrote:
> I also have a plant that I'm wondering what it is.
> It has long pointed leaves that are green on top and purple underneath.  It
> just started blooming again (hasn't bloomed for 5 years).  The blooms looked
> like purple "pitas" with white flowers inside.  When I got it, I was told
> it's called "Joseph's Cradle".   I have attached a picture.  I'm excited
> that you may be able to help me.
> Thanks,
> Cindy Shumake

Cindy,

This sounds like any of a number of plants in the Commelinaceae.  Names 
have changed over the years, but you might find your plant under Rhoeo 
or Tradescantia.  Google "Moses in the Boat" and look at the images that 
come up.

M. Reed