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Description
Aphelandra Squarrosa, commonly known as the Zebra Plant, is a popular tropical plant that belongs to the family Acanthaceae. This plant is native to Brazil, and it is commonly grown as a houseplant due to its vibrant foliage and unique zebra-like stripes on its leaves. The Zebra plant is a fast-growing, low-maintenance plant that can add a pop of color to any indoor space.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Aphelandra |
Appearance
The Zebra Plant is a medium-sized plant that can grow up to 3 feet in height. It has large, glossy leaves that are about 6-8 inches long and 2-4 inches wide. The leaves are green with bold white stripes that resemble zebra stripes. The plant also produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer months.
Care Guide
To keep your Zebra Plant healthy and thriving, follow these care tips:
Water: The Zebra Plant prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The Zebra Plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The Zebra Plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: The Zebra Plant is not cold hardy and should be kept indoors in temperatures between 60-75°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Zebra Plant is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites can also infest the plant, causing yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and regularly clean the leaves with a damp cloth to prevent spider mites.
Habitat
The Zebra Plant is native to the rainforests of Brazil, where it grows in the understory of the forest. It prefers warm, humid environments with plenty of indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Zebra Plant?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can the Zebra Plant tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, the Zebra Plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How tall can the Zebra Plant grow?
A: The Zebra Plant can grow up to 3 feet in height.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for the Zebra Plant?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Zebra Plant:
- Aphelandra aurantiaca
- Aphelandra tetragona
- Aphelandra sinclairiana
References
- “Aphelandra Squarrosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b635.
- “Zebra Plant: How to Grow and Care for Aphelandra Squarrosa.” Epic Gardening, 10 July 2020, epicgardening.com/zebra-plant-aphelandra-squarrosa/.
- “Aphelandra Squarrosa (Zebra Plant).” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant/aphelandra-squarrosa-zebra-plant.
