Shrimp Plant: Overlapping Bracts That Look Like Shrimp

Botanical Name: Justicia brandegeana (syn. Beloperone guttata)

Arching 3–4 inch spikes of overlapping bracts (reddish-brown to coppery pink to golden yellow) cover the plant nearly year-round. Best color with plenty of light. Small white flowers at bract tips are short-lived. Velvety evergreen leaves on upright woody stems. Gets tall/leggy without pruning.

Care for Compact, Blooming Plants

Pinch and Prune Regularly

Pinch growing tips often for bushiness. Propagate cuttings. Prune hard in early spring (by half if needed) to control legginess. Stake weak branches if unpruned.

Repot and Prune Together

Spring when pot-bound. Won't hurt the plant.

Quick Reference: Shrimp Plant Care

• Origin: Mexico
• Height: Up to 3 ft (90 cm) unpruned
• Light: Bright with as much direct sun as possible
• Water: Evenly moist spring–fall; slightly drier winter
• Humidity: Average room
• Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C); summer patio OK, bring in below 60°F (16°C)
• Soil: Any good potting mix
• Fertilizer: High-phosphorus every 2 weeks year-round, diluted by half
• Propagation: 4-inch stem tip cuttings spring. Remove bracts, insert in moist medium.