Overview
Aphelandra sinclairiana is a bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Aphelandra, part of the Acanthaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Aphelandra sinclairiana grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1B. Suggested uses include houseplants and sub-tropical.
About
Aphelandra sinclairiana is a plant species commonly called coral aphelandra, orange shrimp plant, Panama queen or Sinclair's aphelandra. It is a shrub up to 3 m (10 feet) high, native to Central America, specifically Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua. It is also cultivated in warm locations elsewhere, with pink, red, orange, or red-violet flowers and bracts. In the garden it prefers partial shade and loam and sand soil. In UK gardens it needs subtropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1b). Suggested uses include houseplants and sub-tropical. It tolerates acid and neutral soils, well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Aphelandra sinclairiana
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Aphelandra
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1B
Plant details
Aphelandra sinclairiana size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Sub-tropical
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Aphelandra sinclairiana
- Propagation
- Propagate after flowering by cutting back the main stem to a stong pair of leaves to encourage side shoots. When these are 8-10cm (3-4in) long, detach and root
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to aphids, scale insects and mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Aphelandra sinclairiana?
Aphelandra sinclairiana prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Aphelandra sinclairiana need?
Aphelandra sinclairiana grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Aphelandra sinclairiana hardy in the UK?
Aphelandra sinclairiana has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Aphelandra sinclairiana?
Propagate after flowering by cutting back the main stem to a stong pair of leaves to encourage side shoots. When these are 8-10cm (3-4in) long, detach and root.
