Shrimp Plant

Justicia brandegeeana

shrimp plant

Also known as: Mexican Shrimp Plant, Shrimp Flower, False Hop

Native to the tropical regions of Mexico and naturalized in parts of Florida, the Shrimp Plant gets its name from its most eye-catching feature — long, drooping flower spikes covered in overlapping red, pink, and salmon bracts that look exactly like a curved shrimp. Hidden inside each spike are tiny white flowers that hummingbirds absolutely love, making this one of the best pollinator plants you can grow. It blooms almost non-stop in warm weather and fills any garden bed, border, or patio container with unique, tropical color all season long.

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plant tips

Column
Keep soil consistently moist but never soggy — water regularly during the growing season and reduce in cooler months. Drought tolerant once established.
light
Thrives in partial shade to full sun. Some afternoon shade brings out the most vivid color in the bracts — too much direct sun can bleach them out over time.
zone
8 and above.
size
Grows 2–3 ft. tall and wide — compact, bushy, and perfectly sized for garden borders and containers.

care

Plant in rich, well-draining soil in a bright, sheltered spot. Water regularly to keep blooms coming and feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during spring and summer. Trim back stems regularly to keep the plant full, bushy, and tidy — regular pruning encourages more flower spikes and prevents the branches from getting too long and droopy. In cooler climates, bring container plants indoors before temperatures drop below 45°F.

decor inspo

patio container showpiece
Place Shrimp Plant in a large decorative pot on your shaded patio or covered outdoor space for a vibrant, tropical accent that blooms nearly year-round.
terrace tropical accent
Place Shrimp Plant in a decorative pot on your terrace for a non-stop display of shrimp-shaped blooms that thrive in the warmth. Its compact shape and flower spikes bring a fresh touch to any outdoor setting.