Shrimp plant Justicia brandegeeana
ABOUT
The plant known as shrimp plant is a visually striking specimen due to its unique and colorful bracts that resemble the shape of shrimp. It is well-loved for its ornamental appeal, primarily due to these bracts that come in shades of red, pink, or yellow, depending on the variety. These bushy perennial plants boast stems that are square in profile and tend to grow in an outward spreading habit. The leaves of the shrimp plant are oval to lance-shaped with a slightly furry texture, giving them a soft appearance. They are a deep green color, providing a lush backdrop for the colorful bracts. The actual flowers of the plant are quite petite and less noticeable, typically white, and emerge from the bracts. These flowers are tubular, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies that seek their nectar. Given its tropical origins, the shrimp plant thrives in warmer climates and tends to bloom continuously throughout the year if the conditions are favorable. Its evergreen foliage and the long-lasting quality of the bracts make it a popular choice for adding consistent color to gardens or as a houseplant, where it continues to provide visual interest regardless of the season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Acanthaceae
Synonyms
Shrimp Plant, Mexican Shrimp Plant, False Hop, Shrimp Bush
Common names
Beloperone guttata, Justicia brandegeana
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name for Justicia brandegeeana is shrimp plant. Shrimp plants are not known to be toxic to humans. Therefore, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant since it is not considered poisonous. Ingesting any part of this non-toxic plant typically does not lead to any adverse consequences.
To pets
Shrimp plant is not toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. As a result, there aren't any known symptoms of poisoning associated with pets ingesting this plant, and the ingestion of its parts is not expected to cause any harmful effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental beauty: The shrimp plant, with its unique, showy bracts that resemble shrimp, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts wildlife: The flowers of the shrimp plant attract hummingbirds and butterflies, providing a source of nectar.
- Low maintenance: The shrimp plant is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal pruning and upkeep.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, the shrimp plant has a degree of drought resistance, making it suitable for xeriscaping in arid regions.
- Shade tolerance: It can grow in partial shade, providing flexibility in garden design and plant location.
- Fast growth: The shrimp plant grows relatively quickly, allowing for rapid establishment and filling in garden spaces.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of landscaping applications, including borders, hedges, and container gardening.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Justicia brandegeeana has been reported to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation.
- Analgesic: There are claims that it can be used for its pain-relieving properties.
- Antipyretic: The plant is thought to have fever-reducing properties.
- Gastroprotective: It may offer some protection against gastric ulcers or other digestive issues.
- Antibacterial: Some studies suggest that it has antibacterial activity against certain types of bacteria.
- Antioxidant: Justicia brandegeeana exhibits antioxidant properties which could help in preventing oxidative stress.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Shrimp plant, Justicia brandegeeana, can be used in terrariums due to its compact growth and interesting appearance.
- It is often used in butterfly gardens to attract pollinators, as the flowers provide nectar for various species of butterflies and hummingbirds.
- In landscaping, shrimp plant can be utilized for border planting because of its bright floral bracts that add color and texture to garden designs.
- It is suitable for growing in hanging baskets, where its cascading branches can create an attractive display.
- Due to its shade tolerance, the shrimp plant can be used under larger trees or shrubs as a colorful ground cover in shaded areas.
- When grown indoors, it serves as a natural humidifier, releasing moisture into the air through a process known as transpiration.
- In crafting, dried stems and flowers of shrimp plant can be used to create unique and natural decorative pieces.
- Can be used in educational environments such as schools and botanical gardens to demonstrate plant growth and blooming habits to students.
- The shrimp plant is sometimes cultivated as a living easter-themed decoration due to its pastel-colored bracts resembling easter colors.
- It can serve as a companion plant in mixed containers, partnering well with other plants that require similar growing conditions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Shrimp Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Shrimp Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Shrimp Plant: Often called the Shrimp Plant for its unique flower shape and pink color reminiscent of shrimp, Justicia brandegeeana symbolism can include playfulness and uniqueness, reflecting its distinctive appearance.
- Longevity: As a perennial plant that can bloom throughout the year in certain climates, it can symbolize endurance and long-lasting life or relationships.
- Prosperity: The lushness and prolific nature of the flowers may represent growth and abundance, making it a symbol for prosperity and flourishing endeavors.
- Healing: In some cultures, plants of the genus Justicia are used for medicinal purposes, hence the Shrimp Plant can be associated with healing and wellness.
- Adaptability: Given its ability to thrive in various light conditions, the Shrimp Plant might represent flexibility and the capability to adapt to changing circumstances.
WaterThe Shrimp Plant should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this means watering approximately once a week, but it can vary based on environmental conditions such as light and temperature. When watering, saturate the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes, usually about one to two gallons depending on the size of the pot. During the winter months, reduce watering to every other week or when the soil is noticeably dry.
LightThe Shrimp Plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, so placing it near an east or west-facing window where it will receive such light is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves, but also avoid too much shade as it can lead to leggy growth.
TemperatureThe Shrimp Plant prefers warm conditions and should be kept in temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures of 55 degrees Fahrenheit, but it's best to avoid exposure to temperatures below this as it may cause damage. Keep the Shrimp Plant away from drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations for optimal growth.
PruningPrune the Shrimp Plant to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, promotes further blooming. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Regular pruning, two to three times per year, can also help rejuvenate older plants.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Shrimp Plant is well-draining soil with a peat-based potting mix; it prefers a soil pH of 6.1 to 7.5.
RepottingShrimp Plants should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and encourage growth.
Humidity & MistingShrimp Plants thrive in high humidity conditions, ideally between 40-70%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Shrimp Plant in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Grow Shrimp Plant in partial shade and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Justicia brandegeeana, commonly known as the shrimp plant, begins with seed germination, which occurs in warm, moist soil conditions. Following germination, seedlings establish themselves with proper light and water, and soon enter a vegetative growth phase where the plant develops its characteristic green foliage and begins branching. The shrimp plant, being a perennial, then enters the flowering stage where its unique, shrimp-like bracts develop, showcasing colors ranging from yellow to pink and attracting pollinators. After pollination, the plant produces small fruits containing seeds, which, when dispersed, can give rise to new plants. Throughout its life cycle, the shrimp plant may undergo pruning, which stimulates bushier growth and more prolific flowering. Seasonally, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in cooler climates, but in warmer zones, it remains evergreen and can flower throughout the year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Shrimp plant, commonly known as Justicia brandegeeana, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. This method is quite popular because it's relatively simple and usually successful. The ideal time for propagation is in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, one would cut a 3 to 6-inch (approximately 7.5 to 15 cm) long stem just below a leaf node, remove the lower leaves, and insert the cutting into a pot filled with moist potting mix. The cutting should be kept at a warm temperature and in indirect light until roots develop, which generally takes a few weeks. Once the roots have established, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
