Description
- Common names:
- Zebra Plant, Zebra Aphelandra, Saffron Spike, Planta Cebra, Afelandra
- Botanical name:
- Aphelandra squarrosa
- Description:
- A striking tropical plant with glossy, dark green leaves adorned with bold white veins and vibrant yellow flower bracts. Perfect for adding exotic flair to any indoor space.
Features
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Non-Toxic & Pet-Friendly
- Rarity:
- Uncommon Find
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Variegated Leaves, Flowering, Architectural
- Air Purifier:
- Good Air Purifier (7/10)
- Origin:
- Brazil
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room, Office, Bathroom, Modern, Tropical, Bookshelf, Side Table, Bohemian
Care Guide
Care level:
Intermediate+
This plant requires consistent attention to humidity and watering schedules, making it better suited for gardeners with some experience. It's less forgiving of neglect than beginner plants but rewards proper care with stunning displays.
Light:
Medium / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or north-facing window where it receives bright, filtered light but no direct sun. Too much direct sunlight will scorch the leaves, while too little light prevents flowering and causes leggy growth.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch, keeping the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while allowing it to dry out completely causes leaf drop and wilting.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Thrives in humidity levels above 60%, ideally 65-75%. Increase humidity by placing on a pebble tray filled with water, grouping with other plants, or using a humidifier to prevent brown leaf edges and maintain glossy foliage.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-24°C / 65-75°F and should never be exposed to temperatures below 13°C / 55°F. Avoid cold drafts from windows or air conditioning, which can cause leaf drop and stress.
Hardiness zones:
Indoor Only+
This tropical plant is suited for indoor cultivation only and cannot tolerate frost or extended outdoor conditions in most climates. In USDA Zones 10-11, it may be grown outdoors year-round in shaded, protected areas with high humidity.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 3-4 weeks during the active growing season from spring through summer. Reduce feeding to every 6-8 weeks or stop entirely in fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot in spring every 2-3 years or when roots begin growing through drainage holes and the plant becomes top-heavy. Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix and choose a pot only one size larger to prevent excess moisture retention.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the glossy leaves with a soft, damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and maintain their striking appearance. Clean leaves also improve photosynthesis and help the plant's air-purifying capabilities.
Propagation:
Propagates by Cuttings+
Propagate in spring by taking 4-6 inch stem tip cuttings with at least two leaf nodes. Root in moist potting mix or water in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light, covering with plastic to maintain humidity until new growth appears.