Mexican shrimp plant
justicia brandegeeana
Also known as: ["Bravaisia brandegeeana","Shrimp plant"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub with distinctive, shrimp-like pink and white bracts that resemble flowers, native to Mexico and Central America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Genus: | Justicia |
| Botanical Name: | Justicia brandegeeana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered sunlight
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near hot windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or soil.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water evenly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture but not waterlogging; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in response to cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); cease in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicJusticia brandegeeana is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicJusticia brandegeeana is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicJusticia brandegeeana is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the leaves of my Mexican shrimp plant turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Ensure the plant is not sitting in water and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does the Mexican shrimp plant require direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct morning sun. Avoid intense afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.
Q: How often should I water the Mexican shrimp plant?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days, depending on environmental conditions. Reduce watering in winter.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered sunl |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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