The shrimp plant has its origin in Mexico and is a tropical plant that has many species, although only the so-called guttata can be grown indoors. Its scientific name is Beloperone and it has other common names such as chuparrosa, indoor hops, or eat me. It belongs to the Acantáceas family and its cultivation is very simple, so it is a great option to decorate any environment since it is very beautiful and original.
How is the shrimp plant
This tropical shrub is evergreen and blooms throughout the year, so it is widely used for its large ornamental size.
Its inflorescences from a shrimp-shaped spike make them very attractive, and it is advisable to put tutors when it begins to grow a lot since this way it becomes a climber and is much more spectacular. Although it is very leafy, it does not need a very large pot.
Main cares
The main care of this plant are:
- Location : it needs to be in a very well lit place, and it can withstand a couple of hours a day of direct sun, but no more. If you are outdoors, during the summer it is best to be in a semi-shady area.
- Watering : in the hottest time of the year you should water abundantly but without waterlogging, while in the cold season you have to water the essentials so that the soil does not dry out, but with very little quantity.
- Pests and diseases : if it is not properly cared for, it can be attacked by spider mites and aphids.
- Multiplication : it has to be done in spring and by cuttings, cutting them about 10 centimeters and removing a few bracts so that they can root better.
- Transplant : there is no limit, but let it be during the spring.
- Pruning : it will only need training pruning so that it takes the path that you want.
