Aphelandra 'Dania'

Scientific name

Aphelandra squarrosa 'Dania'

General description

Aphelandra squarrosa 'Dania', or Zebra Plant, is a remarkable houseplant for its deep green leaves accented with contrasting white veins. When conditions are ideal, it produces spectacular yellow bracts, giving the whole plant a bright and graphic appearance.

Origin

Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, it grows as a semi-epiphytic shrub in shady, humid areas.

Care

• Light : Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to avoid burning the leaves.
• Watering : Keep the soil constantly moist but not soggy; water regularly and drain excess water.
• Humidity : High (ideally 60% or more) to recreate its natural habitat; air that is too dry causes leaves to wilt.
• Temperature : between 18 and 24°C; do not go below 15°C.
• Substrate : rich, well-draining mix (light potting soil enriched with organic matter, such as peat or substrate for African violets).

Special advice

• Promotes flowering by maintaining bright indirect light for several months.
• Rest the plant in a slightly cooler room (~15°C) after flowering to stimulate a rise in bracts.
• Easily propagated by stem cuttings during the growing season.
• Repot every spring if necessary to renew the substrate.
• Surface sensitive to pests (aphids, scale insects, thrips); monitor and act quickly.
• Toxic if swallowed, keep out of reach of children and animals.