Aphelandra is a genus of more than 200 species of evergreen shrubs in the family Acanthaceae (order Lamiales), native to tropical regions of the Americas. Plants typically grow to 1–2 metres tall and bear opposite, simple leaves 5–30 cm long, which in many species are strikingly marked with white or pale veins contrasting against a deep green background. The flowers are produced in dense terminal spikes, with large, brightly coloured bracts in shades of yellow, orange, or red that persist well after flowering and contribute significantly to the plant's ornamental appeal.
The genus is best known in cultivation through Aphelandra squarrosa (the zebra plant), widely grown as a houseplant for its bold foliage patterning and vivid yellow inflorescences. The diversity of the genus extends across Central and South America, with species occurring from humid lowland forests to montane habitats.
Distribution
Aphelandra is native to the tropical regions of the Americas, ranging across Central America and South America. Species occur in a variety of humid habitats from lowland rainforests to montane forests.
Cultivation
Several species of Aphelandra, notably Aphelandra squarrosa (zebra plant), are widely cultivated as houseplants. They are valued for their ornamental foliage — typically dark green leaves with prominent white veins — and their dense, brightly coloured flower spikes with persistent bracts.
