Aphelandra squarrosa 'Dania' (Zebra Plant)

Aphelandra squarrosa 'Dania' (Zebra Plant)

Plant Description

Aphelandra squarrosa 'Dania', commonly known as the Zebra Plant, is an eye-catching tropical plant admired for its striking dark green leaves with bold white veins. This cultivar is known for its compact growth habit and brilliant yellow flower bracts that bloom in late summer or early fall. While the flowers last only a few weeks, the foliage remains vibrant year-round, making it a popular choice for indoor and tropical gardens.

Native Range

Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, where the Zebra Plant thrives in warm, humid conditions under the canopy.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Zones: 10–11 (Can be grown indoors in all zones)

Size

Height: 1–2 feet tall
Width: 1–2 feet wide

Light Requirements

Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light may cause weak growth and fewer flowers. If grown indoors, place near an east or west-facing window with filtered light.

Soil Requirements

Well-draining, rich, organic potting mix with good moisture retention. A mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark works well. Slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–6.5).

Watering Needs

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Use lukewarm water and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.

Humidity & Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C). Avoid drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Requires high humidity (60%+). Use a pebble tray, humidifier, or mist occasionally to maintain humidity levels.

Fertilization

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 2 weeks during the growing season (spring through early fall). Reduce feeding in winter.

Propagation

Propagated through stem cuttings in spring or early summer. Use a rooting hormone and keep cuttings in a humid environment until roots develop.

Uses

Indoor Decor: A striking houseplant that adds a tropical feel to homes and offices.

Terrariums & Greenhouses: Grows well in controlled, humid environments.

Shaded Outdoor Spaces: In warm climates, can be grown in protected outdoor locations like patios or under tree canopies.

Pest & Disease Management

Watch for common pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Treat with insecticidal soap if needed.
Susceptible to root rot if overwatered—ensure proper drainage.
Leaf drop can occur if humidity is too low or watering is inconsistent.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.