Zebra Plant
Aphelandra squarrosa
Family: Acanthaceae
Care Level: Intermediate
Toxicity: Non-toxic to people and pets
A tropical evergreen shrub with dark green leaves prominently veined in white or yellow, resembling zebra stripes. It can produce bright yellow flower spikes in ideal conditions.
Bright Indirect Light – 150-250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹
Place the plant 5 ft / 1.5m away from a south, west or east-facing window.
Ensure the plant does not have a direct view of the sky.
If direct sunlight on the leaves is unavoidable, a sheer curtain can be used to filter the light.
Consider a PAR Meter, or PAR Meter App to measure photosynthetically active radiation as PPFD (μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹).
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water.
To determine when to water, use a knitting needle or chopstick to test the moisture at various depths.
To ensure optimal plant health, a pot with drainage holes is essential.
Water the plant thoroughly until water runs out the drainage holes. Then, allow the excess water to drain completely before placing the pot on a saucer or in a decorative planter.
Water considerably less in the winter months when the plant isn’t actively growing.
Ready Potting Mix
- For optimal growth, use an organic all-purpose potting mix.
DIY Recipe
- 3 parts Coir, 1 part Pumice, top dress with Worm Castings.
- Apply an organic all-purpose fertilizer every 2-4 weeks, from March to October.
Ideal Temperature Range
- 60-75 ºF / 15-23 ºC
Ideal Humidity Range
- 40-80%
Time to Maturity
- 2-3 years
Eventual Height
- 2-4 ft / 0.6-1.2 m
Eventual Spread
- 1-2 ft / 30-60 cm
A. squarrosa ‘Leopoldii’
Broad foliage with white vein contrast and gold flowers with red bracts. Prefers partial to full shade.
A. squarrosa ‘Louisae’
Deep green leaves with yellow veins and gold bracts surrounding the blooms.
A. squarrosa ‘Brockfeld’
Compact stature with bright green leaves and intricate yellow veins, ideal for desks.
A. squarrosa ‘Fritz Prinsler’
Green foliage with slightly yellow veins, yellow bracts and flowers. Thrives in bright indirect light.
A. squarrosa ‘Dania’
Olive green leaves with creamy white venation, a compact growth suitable for desks.
ZZ Plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Family: Araceae
Care Level: Easy
Toxicity: Toxic to people and pets
Known for its glossy, dark green leaves that grow in a symmetrical pattern. It is highly tolerant of neglect and low light conditions, making it a popular indoor plant.
Medium to Bright Indirect Light – 150-200 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹
Place the plant 6 ft / 1.8m away from a south, west or east-facing window.
Ensure the plant does not have a direct view of the sky.
If direct sunlight on the leaves is unavoidable, a sheer curtain can be used to filter the light.
Consider a PAR Meter, or PAR Meter App to measure photosynthetically active radiation as PPFD (μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹).
Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering.
Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water.
To determine when to water, use a knitting needle or chopstick to test the moisture at various depths.
To ensure optimal plant health, a pot with drainage holes is essential.
Water the plant thoroughly until water runs out the drainage holes. Then, allow the excess water to drain completely before placing the pot on a saucer or in a decorative planter.
Water considerably less in the winter months when the plant isn’t actively growing.
Ready Potting Mix
- For optimal growth, use 2 parts organic all-purpose potting mix, amended with 1 part Bark and 1 part Biochar.
DIY Recipe
- 1 part Coir, 1 part Pumice, 1 part Bark, 1 part Biochar, top dress with Worm Castings.
- Apply an organic all-purpose fertilizer every 2-4 weeks, from March to October.
Ideal Temperature Range
- 65-75 °F / 18-24 °C
Ideal Humidity Range
- 40-50%
Time to Maturity
- 3-5 years
Eventual Height
2-3 ft / 60-90 cm
Eventual Spread
1-2 ft / 30-60 cm
Z. zamiifolia ‘Raven’
Features dark purple-black foliage that adds a dramatic touch to any indoor space. The leaves start green and darken as they mature.
Z. zamiifolia ‘Zenzi’
A compact variety with shorter, thicker stems and smaller, curled leaves. Ideal for small spaces or as a desk plant.
Z. zamiifolia ‘Lucky’
Known for its variegated leaves with streaks of yellow and white, adding a unique visual interest.
Z. zamiifolia ‘Variegata’
Features striking variegated foliage with creamy white and green patterns. This cultivar is less common but highly sought after for its unique appearance.