Species shrimp plant
tubular light red-maroon flowers in shades with pointed green leaves

shrimp plant

Justicia brandegeeana

The shrimp plant (Justicia brandegeeana) is an evergreen perennial with thick, serrated leaves and clusters of red to pink-white tubular flowers. Native to parts of Central and South America, this vibrant shrub blooms year-round in warm climates. The clusters of tubular flowers are typically surrounded by two large pointed bracts, giving them a distinctive “shrimp-like” appearance. Shrimp plants are drought-tolerant and easy to care for, making them a suitable addition to any full-sun garden. They are known for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies, and their showy blooms make them great for container gardens.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Stem Propagation,Air Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 11

Flowers:

White with red to pink-bronze bracts Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Shrimp plants (Justicia brandegeeana) should be watered about once a week, allowing the soil to dry out in between waterings. During the growing season, from late spring to early fall, the soil should be kept slightly moist at all times. During the winter, watering once a month should suffice. Be sure to never allow the soil to become soggy or waterlogged, as this could cause root rot. It is best to water from the bottom, allowing the water to slowly soak up the bottom. This plant thrives in humid environments, so misting it can be beneficial.

sunlight

Shrimp plant (Justicia brandegeeana) should receive direct sunlight for at least 4-6 hours per day. This plant is considered a sun-loving plant and will do best with full sun in the morning, with some shade in the afternoon during the hottest months. It should ideally be placed in an area with bright light where it can receive direct sun in winter and more filtered, indirect light in summer.

pruning

Shrimp plant should be pruned lightly throughout the growing season. Any dead, damaged, or diseased stems and foliage should be removed at any time of the year. During the spring and summer months, trim back any spindly stems to maintain a full and bushy shape. Twice a year, in late spring and summer, prune the plant back by up to 1-third of its total height. This will help keep the plant dense and full. Remove any flower stalks as soon as they begin to fade in order to encourage continuous blooming. Finally, be sure to thoroughly clean and disinfect your pruning shears after each cut to avoid transferring any potential diseases or pests.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Justicia brandegeeana typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in April or May.

Hardiness Map