Porphyrocoma pohliana (Purple Shrimp)

Porphyrocoma pohliana (Purple Shrimp) showing elongated green foliage alongside vibrant magenta flower clusters.

Botanical names: Porphyrocoma pohliana, Justicia pohliana, Justicia scheidweileri

Common names: Purple Shrimp, Blue Shrimp, Rose Pine Cone, Jade Magic, Brazilian Fireworks Plant

Family: Acanthaceae

Origin: Brazil

USDA Zone: 9-10

Plant form: Small

Mature height: 2-5 ft

Sun exposure: Semi-shade; shade

Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.

Watering: Regular

Flower color: Pink; blue, lavender, purple; red, crimson, vinous

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Porphyrocoma pohliana is a tropical evergreen plant that is a prolific bloomer in the tropics. This plant is adaptable, beautiful and flowers all year round in low light. Great as a container and indoor plant. Rose-colored cones emerge on the growing tips and expand until brilliant purple flowers appear among the colorful bracts. The dark green leaves are accented by silver highlights. It should be grown in a fertile, well draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Like many shrubs, it is necessary to prune Porphyrocoma pohliana regularly to ensure that it retains a compact growth habit. Outdoors, this plant can be grown in the shade, but not in full or direct sunlight. Strong sunshine can bleach the leaves.