Aphelandra squarrosa
af-el-AN-druh skwa-RO-suh
Common Names: Zebra Plant, Dania Plant, Saffron Spike
Family: Acanthaceae
Origin: East Brazil
Growth: Upwards
Light: Filtered, indirect
Foot Candles: 100 - 175
Water: Keep evenly moist
Humidity: 50% - 75%
Temperature: 18°C - 28°C
Soil: Well draining potting mix
Container: Self-watering planter, living wall
Nutrients: 10-10-10 Monthly, 10-15-10 in Fall
Propagation: Seed or stem cutting
Interiorscape Use: Container filler, desktop, living wall, fall flower
Common Pests: Mealybugs, Aphids, Spider Mites, Thrips.
Common Issues: Root rot when sitting in water. Leaves brown when over-watered, leaves droop and drop if under-watered, leaves crisp with too much light. Leaves die back if too cold.
Comments: A plant that features beautiful foliage year round and surprises their owner with a bright yellow flower spike, usually in the Fall. A relatively easy to care for plant that prefers moist and humid conditions. A drip-line or plant-nanny system would benefit the growth of the Zebra plant.
Toxicity: Safe.