,
Common Name: zebra plant
Type: Broadleaf evergreen
Family: Acanthaceae
Zone: 11 to 12
Native Range: Brazil
Height: 4 to 6 feet
Spread: 4 to 5 feet
Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer
Bloom Description: Yellow
Sun: Part shade to full shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Medium
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Leaves: Evergreen
Culture
Grow in St. Louis as a houseplant. Well-drained, peaty potting mixture. Plants need bright indirect light, but avoid direct sun. Consistent moisture year around. Soils must not be allowed to dry out. Does not require winter dormancy, but appreciates resting period with slightly reduced watering after flowering. Plants require high humidity and temperatures that do not dip below 65º F, which makes them somewhat difficult to grow in many St. Louis households. Grow in humidified rooms, place pots on a bed of wet pebbles or grow in bathrooms to try to meet the humidity needs. Regular temperatures in summer and minimum 65º F in winter. Cut plants back after flowering to control growth.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Although it is a compact shrub growing to 6’ tall in its native tropical habitat in Brazil, zebra plant is grown in St. Louis as a much smaller houseplant. It is noted for is attractive foliage and spikes of yellow-bracted flowers. Zebra plant is in reference to its ovate to elliptic, dark green leaves with distinctive zebra-like white veins. Spikes of yellow-bracted flowers are long-lasting. It is typically pruned to 12-18” tall.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for aphids, white fly or scale. Crown rot and leaf spots may occur. Foliage may scorch in dry or drafty locations.
Garden Uses
Houseplant for bright, humid areas.