Also known as Saffron Spike · Zebra-Plant · Zebraplant
Zebra Plant (Aphelandra squarrosa) is an eye-catching tropical perennial known for its striking white-striped, dark green leaves and vibrant yellow flower spikes.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Consistent moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, but allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-draining potting mix, rich in organic matter.
50% intensity
Average to warm
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures are between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C.
Indoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half during the growing season (spring/summer).
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
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 during the growing season. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering in winter, allowing the soil to dry more before watering again. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of stems, especially after flowering, to promote branching. Remove spent flower spikes promptly.
Old or yellowing leaves can be trimmed off at the base.
Propagate from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and placed in moist potting mix. Rooting can be encouraged with bottom heat and high humidity.
New plants may take several weeks to establish.
Repot every 2-3 years in spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based blend with added perlite.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid overwatering.
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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
