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Shrimp Plant (Justicia brandegeana) growing in South Florida
Grade Florida

Shrimp Plant — South Florida Plant Guide

Justicia brandegeana

Family: Acanthaceae · Shrub

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

shade gardenfoundation plantingunderstorybutterfly gardenhummingbird gardenmass plantingcontainer

Style Tags

tropicalnaturalisticwildlife friendlyshade tolerant

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial SunShade

Water Requirements

Moderate4/10

Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment, then reduce to weekly once roots are established.

Regular watering needed — not drought tolerant. Water 2-3x per week year-round. Shaded locations require less irrigation than full-sun positions. Avoid overwatering in poorly drained soils — root rot risk. Consistent moisture essential for best bloom production.

Soil and Fertilization

sandyloamfillwell drained

Fertilizer: Light balanced slow-release fertilizer or shade-plant formula

Schedule: February and September. Light balanced slow-release fertilizer.

Salt Tolerance

Low (3/10) — plant away from salt air exposure
Mature Height
24 ft
Mature Width
24 ft
Growth Rate
moderate
Water Demand
4/10
Florida Grade
Florida
Installed Cost
$
USDA Zones
9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
3/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Shrimp Plant at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Shrimp Plant grow in South Florida?

Shrimp Plant has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Shrimp Plant safe for pets?

Yes, Shrimp Plant is considered pet-safe. Non-toxic to dogs and cats. Fully safe for pet-accessible landscapes.

How much water does Shrimp Plant need in South Florida?

Moderate water needs (4/10). Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment, then reduce to weekly once roots are established.

Can Shrimp Plant tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Shrimp Plant has low salt tolerance (3/10) and is not recommended near areas with significant salt air exposure.

Is Shrimp Plant available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Shrimp Plant is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. Not on prohibited list.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. Widely used in shaded Broward foundation and understory plantings.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Good for Palm Beach County shaded foundation plantings.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Useful in Naples area landscapes with significant tree canopy shade.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Low salt tolerance means inland and protected Keys locations only.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

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Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

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Ask about Shrimp Plant

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.