shrimp plant

For best growth and flowering, the shrimp plant should be watered every 1 to 2 weeks, with enough water to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Depending on local conditions such as light and temperature, the amount of water will vary; an average of 2 to 3 cups of water, applied directly to the soil, should be sufficient. Additionally, the shrimp plant can benefit from regular misting between waterings to help maintain humidity.

Shrimp plants requires at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day but may need additional hours during the hottest summer months. It can tolerate shade during the cool of the day, as this plant does not like the heat of direct sun. The optimum sunlight exposure for Shrimp plant is a sunny spot with several hours of direct starlight in the morning and a few hours of dappled shade in the afternoon. Too little or too much light can cause the leaves of a shrimp plant to fade in color and reduce growth or flower production. When inadequate sunlight is provided, the leaves of Shrimp plant may develop very slowly with stunted flowering.

Shrimp Plant (Justicia brandegeeana 'Yellow Queen') should be pruned before the start of spring or in late winter if necessary. Generally, it should be pruned back by a third in order to encourage bushier growth and achieve a compact shape. Depending on its size, it may have to be pruned more extensively. Removing spent blossoms should also be done regularly to encourage new blooms and help the plant look tidy.