Shrimp Plant
Justicia brandegeeana
Family
Acanthaceae
Origin
Mexico
Difficulty
Easy
Sunlight
Bright indirect to direct
Water
Weekly
Temperature
15-27°C
Soil
Well-draining mix
Flowering
Year-round shrimp-like bracts
Height
30-60cm
The Shrimp Plant produces curious arching flower spikes with overlapping copper-red bracts that drip with small white flowers, resembling cooked shrimp. It blooms nearly year-round with minimal care.
🌱Care Guide
Water when top inch is dry. Prune regularly to prevent legginess. Deadhead spent blooms. Propagate from stem cuttings.
🧬Evolution & History
Justicia brandegeeana evolved in Mexico's tropical regions. The overlapping bracts evolved to protect the delicate true flowers inside while still attracting hummingbird pollinators.
💡Fun Facts
- #1Flowers look like cooked shrimp
- #2Blooms nearly year-round
- #3Attracts hummingbirds
- #4Easy to propagate
❓FAQ
Why is it getting leggy?▼
Prune regularly by cutting back up to half the plant. This encourages bushy growth and more blooms.
Is it toxic?▼
No, Justicia species are generally non-toxic to pets and humans.
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