Accession Count: 8
Common Name:
shrimp plant
Family Name:
Acanthaceae
Botanical Name:
Justicia brandegeana
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
The shrimp plant has pinnate, opposite, ovate leaves that are about two and a half inches long. They are light green evergreen shrubs, that may require substantial water. The flowers are pinkish-orange organized in spikes - the structure of the flower helps it to withstand the UV rays of the sun.
Compound:
Jus bra
Geographic Origin:
Mexico
Ecozone Origin:
Nearctic
Biome Origin:
MX
Natural History:
The J. brandegeana is native to the warm regions of the Americas and to the West Indies (2).
Cultivation Notes:
This species tends to sprawl across the ground and has bract formations that look like boiled shrimp. They are traditionally tropical plants and grow best with partial shade and moderate amounts of water. In a sustainable xeriscape landscape, the best-suited design would be a mini-oasis. The tender quality of this plant is consistent up to around 25 ℉, it is very cold sensitive.
Ethnobotany:
The interesting shrimp-like, yellow flowers attract hummingbirds when they bloom. The fascinating flowers on this plant make it perfect as a patio plant or even a hedge.
Height:
0 - 5 feet
Width:
0 - 5 feet
Growth Rate:
Moderate Growing
Grow Season:
Winter
Flower Season:
Summer
Color:
Pink
Function:
Patio
Spread:
Non-spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Tender
Water Use:
Moderate Water Use
Citations:
- Duffield, Mary Rose., and Warren D. Jones. Plants For Dry Climates - How To Select, Grow And Enjoy. Lane Publishing Company, 1992.
- britannica.com. Retrieved Oct. 14, 2018.
