This sub-shrub has a short stem with a few spreading branches that form a compact leafy crown. It has dark green elliptical leaves with contrasting whitish veins and the yellow tube-shaped flowers appear in a terminal spike during summer. 

Hardiness zones 10 to 11

Aphelandra squarrosa is naturally found in the tropical and sub-tropical forests of America growing in the understory in well drained organic rich moist soils in a semi shaded wind protected humid position and is drought, frost and cool temperature sensitive. 

The Zebra Plant is grown for its striped foliage. It is planted in the understory or tropical gardens commonly around water features. It is also grown as a potted plant for humid shaded courtyards or as an indoor or as a hot house specimen. It establishes in 2-3 years and is sensitive to cold conditions and requires a minimum of 10ºC (50ºF) during winter. It drops leaves from over watering and under cold conditions. ID 620

Aphelandra (ăf-el- ĂN-dra) squarrosa (skwah-RÕ-sa)

Acanthaceae (ah-kanth-AY-see-ee)
Acanthus Family