Snow White Zebra Houseplant

The Snow White Zebra Plant, known scientifically as Aphelandra squarrosa 'Snow White', is a striking houseplant known for its bold, decorative foliage. The leaves are dark green with prominent white veins, giving it a zebra-like appearance. It's also admired for its bright yellow flowers, although these are less common when grown indoors. This plant adds a vibrant, tropical feel to any indoor space.

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in spring when the risk of frost has passed.
• - Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for growth and air circulation.
• - Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for succulents and cacti.

Soil Preparation:

• - Use a gritty, well-draining soil mix; a combination of cactus mix and perlite works well.
• - Ideal pH level should be between 6.0 and 7.0.

Watering Specifics:

• - Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
• - During the growing season (spring and summer), water every 2-3 weeks; reduce in fall and winter.
• - Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent rot and fungal diseases.

Fertilizer Type:

• - Fertilize with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• - Avoid fertilizing in the fall and winter when growth slows.

Pruning and Training:

• - Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain appearance and promote healthy growth.
• - Prune as needed to shape the plant and control its size.

Additional Pest Management:

• - Watch for common pests like mealybugs and aphids; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• - Maintain good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Blooming Indicators:

• - Produces unique, tubular flowers typically in summer; blooms can be yellow or orange.
• - Blooms are more likely to occur when the plant is well-established and receives adequate light.

Light Requirements:

• - Prefers bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct sun in the morning.
• - Too little light can cause the plant to become leggy; aim for at least 6 hours of light daily.

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Thrives in temperatures between 70-80°F; can tolerate temperatures down to 50°F.
• - Protect from frost; bring indoors during colder months if grown outside.

Companion Plants for Snow White Zebra:

• - Other Succulents: Create a vibrant display with various shapes and colors.
• - Cacti: Enjoy similar care requirements and add diversity to your plant collection.
• - Aloe Vera: Thrives in similar conditions, making a great companion.
• - Echeveria: Offers beautiful rosettes that pair well with the Snow White Zebra's unique look.