Essential Guide to Zebra Plant Care and Maintenance
Just take a look at the striking white stripes of the Zebra plants (Aphelandra the squarrosa), and you’ll be able to figure out why it was named. The zebra plant (not in the same way as the zebra haworthia) is famous for their striking stripes on leaves.
However, these stunning plants will surely draw people’s attention due to their exotic look. In bloom, the South American natives produce beautiful blooms of yellow that last for several weeks.
Zebra plants are generally used as houseplants; however, in warmer climates, they can be found in the outdoors, where their blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies. I am going to share my proven and tested zebra care plant tips as well.
What Is a Zebra Plant?
The Zebra plant (Aphelandra the squarrosa) is a tropical plant native to Brazil. The plant is known for its dark-green leaves and white lines, and this adored houseplant can grow to 2 feet in height indoors and 6 feet outside. In full bloom, the zebra plant produces blooms that are bright and yellow.
Types of Zebra Plant
There are many varieties of zebra plants, such as:
- A. Squarrosa ‘Dania’ has green leaves that have white veins. It also sports maroon to reddish stems, as well as yellow flowers.
- A. Squarrosa squarrosa ‘Fritz Priser” has green leaves with slight yellow veins. The bracts and flowers are yellow in colour.
- A. Squarrosa “Leopoldii” has larger leaves and flowers of gold with bracts of red.
- A. Squarrosa ‘Louisae’ has green leaves that have yellow veins and yellow flowers with bracts of gold.
- A. Squarrosa ‘Snow White is a dark green leaf that has white veins, but it is unique due to those tiny spots of white on leaves which look like snow. The flowers are either gold or yellow.
Common Problems With Zebra Plant
I have observed few problems with zebra plant. With such a gorgeous yet delicate plant, there’s a chance that you’ll encounter issues with the leaves. Make sure to watch the leaves to provide your zebra plant with the attention and love. It deserves to be protected.
Plant Leaves Falling Off
Suppose the leaves fall off the tree, which is most likely caused by overwatering or underwatering. The leaves tips on the lower parts of the tree may begin to turn brown when the issue is this. If the issue with watering is not resolved, then the leaves will drop off. However, it may be an issue due to the fact that the air is humid around the plants, and it needs to be humidified.
Curling Leaves
If your leaves are curly or crinkling up, the plant may be receiving too much sun or feel hot. While it is a fan of sunlight, it could be too strong or hot. Place the plant in an area that has light but not as strong or direct to allow it to cool just a bit.
Browning Tips
Browning leaf tips typically occur for one of two reasons: either too much sunlight or fertiliser. Simply shift the plant to a place that is less exposed to light or reduces fertilization.
Propagating a Zebra Plant
Plant a zebra in spring, making use of the stems from the original plant.
- With the sharp, disinfected cutting tool, cut 2 to 3-inch long sections of stems and the side branches of plants.
- The cut’s ends should be covered with the form of a root-promoting hormone to increase the chances of successful propagation.
- Place the stems’ ends in an empty pot that is filled with moist soil, and set the pot on top of a heating mat in case your space is not able to maintain temperatures of 70 degrees.
- The stems also require plenty of moisture to develop solid roots, so it could be beneficial to boost the amount of moisture by growing them in the form of a covered container or by placing plastic wrap on top of the container.
The growth of roots can last for about one month. Be on the lookout for new growth on the surface of the plant, as it indicates that the plant is growing beneath the soil line as well. Zebra plants that have been propagated must be repotted once the plant develops roots.
Care of your Zebra Plant
Follow these steps to care for your Zebra Plant. This guide will explain the best way to care for a Zebra Plant, its light and temperature preferences, humidity, and any additional attention it requires to grow.
Light
I ensure to place my zebra plant in appropriate light. The zebra plant thrives in indirect light that is bright and warm. It is tolerant of just a few hours of direct morning sun. However, it should be avoided for long periods of direct sunlight, particularly intense afternoon sunlight, which can cause leaves to burn. Zebra plants cannot adapt to low light levels.
Water
The zebra plant should be watered when you notice that the upper 25% of the soil is dry. Make sure to water thoroughly and drain the saucer of excess water to stop root decay. Do not water directly on leaves, as water may flow down the stems, causing crown rot.
Humidity
Zebra plants require the highest humidity of 60-70 percent. In environments with lower levels of humidity, the edges of the leaves will turn brown, new leaves might not grow correctly, and the plant may not flourish.
Collect plants to create a moist microclimate. Place the humidifier close by or utilize a pebble tray to boost the humidity. Make sure the plant is out of air vents, which could dry. A large, oversized humidity dome with a vent could help.
Temperature
The zebra plant likes temperatures of 65 degrees or more for growth. Avoid sudden cold drafts or abrupt temperatures.
Food
For the best results, use the liquid fertilizer that is reduced to half the strength recommended once every two weeks in the summer and spring. Do not apply fertilizer to dry soil. Always make sure that the soil is moist prior to applying fertilizer to your garden.
Toxicity
The zebra plant is thought to be safe for humans and pets.
Additional Care
While the zebra plant can be considered to be non-toxic, its sap may irritate sensitive skin, and we suggest the use of gloves whenever handling the plant. If the conditions are right, the zebra plant can produce a variety of flower spikes. The bright, vibrant blooms are bracts. They are a form of modified leaf structure.
They are able to stay in the plant for as long as six weeks. When bracts begin to turn brown, simply reduce the stem as close to the bottom of the plants as possible. Your plant will enter the resting phase after blooming and will need less water. You must also stop fertilization in this period until you can see the first signs of growth in your new leaf.
Companion Plants for Zebra Plant
Zebra plants are a great choice when paired with the other native tropical plants, But care must be taken to select plants that are tolerant of the same amount of moisture and won’t overpower them. Pothos is a good companion plant. (Pothos spp. ), peace lily (Spathiphyllum spp. ) and Korean rock fern (Polystichum tsus-simense)
Pothos
Pothos can be described as one of the easiest houseplants to cultivate, and the majority of species can tolerate very little light. Pothos is a hardy yet beautiful vining plant that thrives in any situation, with only very little water or drained soil. Like zebra plants, pothos thrives in humid conditions and temperatures that range from 65degF to 75degF.
Peace Lily
The care of the peace lily is easy, and it is frequently recommended for new houseplant owners. Like the zebra, this peace lily, too, is indigenous to South America and prefers warm, humid climates.
Even in dim light, the plant can be found with lush green foliage as well as (occasionally) white flower spathes that hang on tall, elegant stems. Peace lilies like direct, bright light and typically grow 1 to three feet high indoors but can reach 6 feet when planted outdoors in tropical climates throughout the year.
Korean Rock Fern
Korean rock ferns (Polystichum thus-sense) are simple ferns to maintain and can be grown indoors and outdoors in warmer temperatures ( Zones 7-10). Originating from the eastern region of Asia, The ferns like bright, indirect light and humid, warm climates. The tiny and tufted fern has a compact, neat growth habit and is a favourite choice for terrariums as well as tropical houseplant collections.
FAQ
Is a zebra plant simple to maintain?
As with many other plants that love warmth, the zebra can be difficult to grow indoors, particularly in areas with temperate climates. It needs a lot of warmth, moisture and food for its growth, as well as indoor conditions that do not always lend themselves to the plant.
How fast does a zebra plant grow?
It’s a plant that grows very slowly and can reach a height of only a few feet within three years. You’ll seldom need to pot your plant again.
How long will a zebra plant survive?
If given the proper maintenance and care, the zebra houseplant could live for as long as an entire decade.
What is different between the zebra plants and Calathea Zebrina?
Both plants are known by the name zebra, which is a common plant. However, the two plants don’t have any connection. The major difference is that Calathea zebrina has leaves that are lighter in colour and don’t bloom like Aphelandrosa Squarrosa.
