Aphelandra squarrosa 'White Wash' is all about bold contrast. With its thick, glossy leaves veined in crisp silvery-white against a deep green background, it gives serious tropical vibes. Compact, upright, and full of texture, this plant is ideal for bright indoor spots where you want something a little different. And if it's happy? You might even get rewarded with golden-yellow flower bracts.
Botanical Name: Aphelandra Squarrosa 'White Wash'
Commonly known as : Zebra Plant 'White Wash'
If you love houseplants that bring drama and structure, Aphelandra 'White Wash' is a top pick. Its thick, pointed leaves are crisply striped in silvery whitelike a zebra plant with a gentler, cooler-toned finish. The upright growth habit makes it perfect for desks, shelves, or feature pots, and although it's often grown for its foliage, the flowers are just as interesting: cone-like yellow bracts that can last for weeks.
Native to Brazil, this plant thrives in warm, bright, and humid environmentsthink bathrooms, kitchens, or well-lit living spaces. It does need a little more attention than your average tropical, but when it's happy, it puts on a truly spectacular show.
Aphelandra Squarrosa 'White Wash' care guide
Light requirements:
Bright, indirect light is essential. Too little light will dull the colours and stretch the plant, while too much direct sun can scorch the leaves. A spot near a curtain-filtered east or west window is ideal.
💧 Watering:
Water when the top 23 cm of soil feels dry. Keep the soil lightly moist during spring and summer, but reduce watering in winter. It's sensitive to overwatering, so good drainage is a must. If leaves start to droop or curl, check your watering routine.
🌡 Humidity & Temperature:
This plant loves humidity. Aim for above 50% if possible. If your space is dry, misting or using a pebble tray will help. Keep temperatures between 1826°C and avoid cold draughts or dry heaters.
🪴 Potting mix:
For optimal drainage and healthy roots, you can use our premixed Aroid Mix, or you can create your own potting mix using Barks Unlimited Potting Soil combined with Perlite and some Bark Chips. Repot annually in spring if the plant becomes rootbound.
🌱 Feeding:
Feed every 34 weeks during the warmer months with a controlled release fertiliser or a gentle organic fertiliser. Don't fertilise in winter.
🐛 Pests & Problems:
Watch for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs, especially in dry air. Keep leaves clean and treat infestations early with an insecticidal spray.
Pruning & propagation:
Pinch back the growing tips if you want to encourage bushier growth. Older leaves naturally yellow and fall offjust remove them to keep the plant tidy. Can be propagated from stem cuttings in high humidity, though it may take time to root.
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