Timon and Pumbaa might be all out of Zebra, but we’ve got your back. You’re welcome Simba!! The Aphelandra squarrosa Zebra Plant – an absolute banger! 🦓🌿💃
Why we’re glad you asked as we do our best to have a relatively steady supply of Aphelandra – Zebra. Click here to See if we have any Aphelandra – Zebra in Stock!
Aphelandra – Zebra Plant Lighting & Position
Zebra plant will do best in bright indoor light and will tolerate a medium amount of dappled morning sunlight but prolonged exposure may result in leaf burn and in some cases leaf loss.
Aphelandra – Zebra Plant Watering
It’s important to keep up a regular watering routine. In summer you want to keep the soil moist but not soggy. To monitor this, you can use your finger to poke into the top 5 cm of potting mix and feel the soil moisture level before watering. If it feels particularly wet, let it dry out for longer. Overwatering can lead to fungal issues or root rot. Try watering once or twice a week, but always testing the soil first to see if watering is necessary. During winter, when the plant isn’t in an active growing phase you should reduce watering frequency and use tepid/room temperature water.
With almost all plants, drainage is essential. Ensure that whatever vessel your plant is in, there are sufficient holes in the bottom to allow excess water to freely drain from the pot and away from the plant’s roots.
Sudden loss of leaves can be caused by exposure to cold air, excessive direct sun or dryness at the roots. Brown leaf tips and leaf edges are an indicator that the air is too dry – see below for tips to increase localised humidity.
Aphelandra – Zebra Plant Humidity
Zebra plant will do best with a high level of ambient humidity. Keep them clear of heaters or aircon units – these dry out the air and can quickly damage their leaves. Some tips for increasing humidity include grouping plants together, placing pots on a pebble tray, or – if you want to go all-out – buy a small humidifier online and place it in amongst your rainforest friends!
N.b. misting with a spray bottle will only improve humidity temporarily, and if done excessively can lead to fungal issues. Misting should only be done occasionally and is most effective as part of your leaf cleaning routine. (Mist and then gently wipe leaves with a cloth to clear away dust from the leaf surface.)
Aphelandra – Zebra Plant Fertiliser
Feed with liquid fertiliser fortnightly over the warm, growing period and not at all over the cooler winter months.
We recommend using our Plant Food available here.
Aphelandra – Zebra Plant Extra Tips
To encourage lateral branching and bushier growth, periodically prune your plant to just above a node. (A node is the spot on a stem where leaves emerge).It’s completely normal for older leaves, lower down on the stem of the plant, to fade in colour and brown off as they age. Prune off any damaged or dying leaves using a sharp pair of scissors or secateurs so that the plant can put more energy into the newer, healthier growth.
Aphelandra – Zebra Plant Toxicity
Non – toxic.
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