Justicia brandegeeana image • Photo: Author Rror• CC BY-SA 3.0
Justicia brandegeeana is an evergreen shrub with spindly limbs, growing up to 1 m (3.3 ft) tall and 60–90 cm (24–35 in) wide. It features variegated oval leaves that develop more creamy white speckling with increased sun exposure. The plant is renowned for its distinctive flower bracts that resemble shrimp, starting white and transitioning to pale pink or deep salmon depending on light exposure. Chains of these bracts can grow up to 30 cm (1 ft) long, with slender white flowers featuring maroon-speckled throats that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Justicia brandegeeana
Light Requirements
Partial shade to filtered light; tolerates low indoor light
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Water when soil surface dries out; drought-tolerant
Humidity Needs
medium humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
Above 7°C (45°F); prefers 18–27°C (64–80°F)
Native Climate
Native to Mexico
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-drained sandy or loamy soil
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Justicia brandegeeana plants
Stem cuttings
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Mexico
Up to 1 m (3.3 ft) tall, 60–90 cm (24–35 in) wide
Perennial (10–20 years)
Pet safety unknown
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Bloom Season
Year-round with intermittent pauses
Flower Description
Slender white flowers with maroon-speckled throats emerge from layered bracts that resemble shrimp. Bract color ranges from white to deep salmon depending on light exposure.
Fun Fact
The plant's bracts transform color based on sunlight exposure – more sun intensifies pink/salmon hues while shade maintains white coloration.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Justicia brandegeeana
Fine webbing on leaves, yellowing foliage
Tiny white insects flying around plant, sticky residue on leaves
Wilting, yellow leaves, blackened/mushy roots
Brown/yellow spots or powdery rust on leaves
Varieties
Different varieties of Justicia brandegeeana
Features bright yellow flower bracts instead of the typical pink or salmon
Displays deep reddish-brown bracts for dramatic contrast
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Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Justicia brandegeeana
Low Light Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for low light plants like your Justicia brandegeeana
Low Maintenance Plants Care Guide
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Drought Tolerant Plants Care Guide
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Flowering Plants Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for flowering plants plants like your Justicia brandegeeana
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