Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months.
Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water to prevent root rot.
Also known as Saffron Spike · Zebra-Plant · Zebraplant
Zebra Plant (Aphelandra squarrosa) is an evergreen perennial admired for its striking dark green leaves with bright yellow stripes and showy, cone-like yellow flower brac
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Allow top 2-3 cm of soil to dry between waterings.
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix.
50% intensity
Average to Warm
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts.
Indoor
50% intensity
During Growing Season
50% intensity
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half, every 2-4 weeks.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months.
Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water to prevent root rot.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove faded flower spikes promptly. Pinch back the tips of stems in spring to promote branching. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears for a neat cut.
Propagate Zebra Plants from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in moist potting mix. Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity until roots form.
Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Zebra Plant (Aphelandra squarrosa)
Where Zebra Plant (Aphelandra squarrosa) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Aphelandra |
| Species | Aphelandra squarrosa |
Similar in genus Aphelandra
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data