Zebra Plant Information

Zebra plant, which is a woody shrub in its native land - Brazil, is grown as medium and small-sized houseplants, which bear a height of up to one foot. This plant got its name from the white stripes on its green- colored leaves reminiscent to the stripes of a zebra. It is also known as 'saffron spike' because of its saffron-yellow spike. This plant belongs to the family Acanthaceae, which consists of around 2500 species.

General Characteristics

As stated earlier, zebra plant is commonly seen in the forests of Brazil as a woody shrub with a height of up to six feet, but the household version is not more than one foot. It is grown for its foliage and colorful spikes. The stem of the plant has a purple-tinge and the leaves are waxy and dark green in color. The oval-shaped leaves have pointed tip and are borne in pairs (exactly opposite to each other). These bright green leaves have a midrib and veins, which are creamy white in color. Four-sided yellow spikes formed at the terminal end of the plant, produce flowers. The spike has overlapping bracts one above another and protruding yellow flowers too. These two-lipped flowers have a short lifespan, but the bract survives for almost six to eight months. Once the bract shows signs of deterioration, we ought to cut it off from the plant.

Care for Zebra Plants

These plants need bright light to grow, but one should avoid keeping them in direct sunlight. Other factors essential for the growth of this plant are good airflow, high humidity and consistent moisture. Too much or too little watering can cause the leaves to fall. Ideal temperature for this plant is 65-70° F, and it is detrimental to expose it to a temperature below 65° F for a long period. Low temperatures cause falling of leaves in these plants. To meet the humidity requirement of these plants, keep them in humidified rooms or place the pots on a tray of wet pebbles, or keep them in bathroom.

Usually, this plant flowers during the fall, but with the right conditions (a particular amount of sunlight and good growth), this can happen in any other season. After flowering, prune the plants to control their growth and to promote formation of side shoots. New plants can be developed from these cuttings. During winter, this plant needs water and fertilizers in small amounts only. In other seasons, you can feed them once or twice a month. You can use insecticides and fungicides to prevent the attack of mealybugs, aphids, scale and spider mites, and fungal diseases during damp climate. For good growth, zebra plants have to be grown in organic and fast draining soil.

Growing zebra plant is an easy task. A little effort is needed to take care of this beautiful plant. If at all, the plant does not flower, its foliage is sufficient for ornamental purposes.