Justicia brandegeeana (Shrimp Plant)

Justicia brandegeeana is a somewhat leggy, but lovely hedge or shrub with unusual flowers resembling shrimps. The long flowers appear throughout the year. Keep it trimmed for a more robust shape. In the south, the plant prefers some dappled shade in the heat of the day, but in more northern zones, it can tolerate more direct sun exposure. Fertilize once a month in spring and summer, using a half weakened tomato fertilizer like Miracle Gro. The roots enjoy loam with sand cut in for good draining. Living in Zone 9A, I begin taking cuttings for propagation around late December. They don't wilt or die as quickly when done as temperatures moderate. Keep cuttings in shade until established, and use a 3/4 perlite to 1/4 unmilled sphagnum moss medium. Place 4 to 6 cuttings per planter. Sit rooting planter in pan full of water. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone powder first. Although my adult plants can withstand 25 degree temperatures, protect the cuttings from frosts their first year.
A beautiful landscape hedge, I prefer using it against a northern or eastern wall. If you live up north, give more sunlight and mulch in winter if temps drop into low 20's. Anything under that, bring indoors to save. Roots readily from division. Although they claim the plant attracts insects, I have yet to see even one near it. Florida only has two hummingbird species, so I cannot attribute to it's attractiveness to them. Perhaps up north they will lure in these lovely flying jewels.
Also, keep the soil moist to just dry at surface in hot weather. Water less frequently in late fall and winter. Amend soil in spring with compost. Give a good fertilizer boost in March (along with some compost tea) to get the blooms going again.
If you do things right, this lovely plant will bloom for you through most of the spring, summer and into fall.

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