Aphelandra squarrosa
Aphelandra squarrosa
Zebra Plant
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Taxonomy
Family Acanthaceae · Genus Aphelandra
Description
Aphelandra squarrosa, the Zebra Plant, is a striking tropical with glossy dark green leaves boldly striped in white and showy yellow bracts. With bright indirect light, steady moisture, warmth, and high humidity, it rewards you with dramatic foliage and occasional blooms.
Common Names
Zebra PlantZebra AphelandraSaffron Spike
Context
nativeRegion
Brazil’s Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil.
usdaZones
11-12 outdoors; commonly grown indoors elsewhere.
companionPlants
Fittonia (Nerve Plant), Goeppertia/Calathea species, Maranta leuconeura (Prayer Plant), Nephrolepis exaltata (Boston Fern), Peperomia polybotrya, Philodendron hederaceum (Micans)
culturalUses
Widely used as an ornamental houseplant for bold foliage and long-lasting yellow bracts; featured in tropical shade gardens and floral displays.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; gentle morning sun is fine, avoid harsh midday rays.
WateringKeep evenly moist; water when the top 1 inch dries. Avoid waterlogging and never let it fully dry out.
SoilRich, airy, slightly acidic mix (peat or coco coir + perlite + bark) with excellent drainage.
FertilizerHalf-strength balanced liquid every 2-4 weeks spring to early fall; pause in winter. Optional bloom booster before flowering.
HumidityHigh humidity 60-80%; use a humidifier or pebble tray and avoid dry drafts.
Temperature65-80°F (18-27°C); protect from temps below 60°F (16°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen tropical shrub-like perennial with upright stems and large white-veined leaves.
Mature SizeIndoors 12-24 in tall and wide; outdoors up to 3-4 ft.
Growth RateModerate growth rate.
BloomingTypically late summer to fall; golden cone-like bracts last 4-8 weeks, small white flowers are short-lived.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slight winter slowdown—reduce watering and feeding.
Propagation
MethodsStem tip cuttings, Softwood cuttings, Air layering, Seed (rare)
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPinch tips to encourage branching; remove spent bracts and yellow leaves; light post-bloom cutback if leggy.
RepottingRepot every 1-2 years in early spring or when rootbound; move up 1-2 inches and ensure sharp drainage.
Pests & DiseasesProne to spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale; leaf spot, botrytis, and root rot if overwatered or in poor airflow.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to pets and people; ingestion may cause mild stomach upset.
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