How to Grow White Shrimp Plant
White Shrimp Plant
Justicia brandegeeana 'White' (Beloperone guttata 'White')
shrubA tropical ornamental shrub known for its distinctive white, curved flower spikes that resemble shrimp in appearance. The plant features glossy green foliage and produces delicate white bracts with small white flowers throughout the year in warm conditions. It's a popular houseplant that thrives indoors and can be grown outdoors in warm climates.
When should you plant White Shrimp Plant in your zone?
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Example White Shrimp Plant timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant White Shrimp Plant
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest White Shrimp Plant
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact White Shrimp Plant dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10b-11; grows as a houseplant elsewhere
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Propagation/Seedling
2-4 weeksYoung plants developing first true leaves; stem cuttings root readily or seeds germinate
Keep in warm conditions (70-75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light. Use rooting hormone for cuttings. Maintain consistent moisture.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant develops bushy foliage with multiple stems and glossy green leaves; no flowers yet
Pinch back growing tips to encourage branching and bushier shape. Maintain warm temperatures and consistent moisture. Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer.
Budding
2-3 weeksFirst flower spikes (bracts) begin forming at branch tips; distinctive curved white structures appear
Maintain bright light to support bract coloration. Continue regular watering and monthly feeding. Ensure adequate warmth (65-75°F minimum).
Flowering
6-12 weeks (can repeat multiple times yearly)White shrimp-like flower spikes fully developed with delicate white flowers emerging from bracts
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Maintain consistent moisture and humidity. Feed every 2-3 weeks with flowering plant fertilizer.
Mature/Maintenance
OngoingEstablished plant producing flowers continuously with dense foliage; may become leggy if not pruned
Prune back by 1/3 annually to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Reduce watering and feeding in winter.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity by misting regularly; spray with water or insecticidal soap weekly if infested
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7-10 days
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve air circulation
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Scrape off manually or treat with horticultural oil spray; repeat every 7 days until clear
Uses
Ornamental Houseplant
HouseholdPrized for its unique white shrimp-shaped flowers that add tropical flair to indoor spaces. The plant's year-round blooming ability and attractive foliage make it an excellent accent plant for bright windowsills or plant displays. [source]
Air Purification
HouseholdLike many tropical houseplants, white shrimp plant contributes to indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. It's a non-toxic plant safe around pets and children. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
CraftThe distinctive white flower spikes are excellent for tropical-themed floral arrangements and last well in water. They add unique texture and shape to bouquets. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalIn some Latin American and Asian traditional medicine practices, related Justicia species have been used for anti-inflammatory and potential antimicrobial properties, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeWhen grown outdoors in tropical regions, the white flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making it valuable for garden biodiversity and pollinator support. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
White shrimp plants are ornamental and not typically harvested for use; however, spent flower spikes can be removed to encourage continued blooming. Cut flowers last 1-2 weeks in a vase. Prune back in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'shrimp plant' comes from the flower spikes' remarkable resemblance to cooked shrimp, though the true shrimp plant (Justicia brandegeeana) is typically red or orange—the white variety is a cultivar prized for its unique, ethereal appearance.
- 🌱 White shrimp plants are native to Mexico and produce flowers nearly year-round indoors, making them one of the most reliable flowering houseplants for consistent blooms.
- 🌱 The plant is sometimes called 'Mexican shrimp plant' or 'false hop' and belongs to the Acanthaceae family, which includes many tropical ornamentals and medicinal plants.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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