SPECIMEN NO. #71 🟢 PET SAFE Family: Acanthaceae

Justicia brandegeeana

Common Name: Shrimp Plant

Shrimp Plant (Justicia brandegeeana) is a houseplant in the Acanthaceae family, native to Assam. It is a bright indirect-light species that thrives between 2000 and 6000 lux. Optimal indoor care calls for watering roughly every 6 days, temperatures of 16–28°C, and about 65% humidity. According to ASPCA data, it is non-toxic and considered pet-safe for cats and dogs. It is also known as Honolulu-salvia.

Justicia brandegeeana (Shrimp Plant) botanical field specimen photograph

ASPCA Pet Toxicity Determination

Toxic to Dogs? NO (Safe)
Toxic to Cats? NO (Safe)
Clinical Symptoms:

Toxicity not verified against ASPCA — treat as unknown.

Quantitative Care Thresholds

Light Level Profile Bright Indirect
Minimum Light Requirement 2000 Lux
Maximum Light Tolerance 6000 Lux
Watering Frequency Every 6 Days
Temperature Envelope 16°C – 28°C
Ideal Ambient Humidity 65% RH

Taxonomic & Field Verification

GBIF Usage Key 3173122
Native Biogeographical Range Assam; Bangladesh; Benin; Bolivia; Brazil South; Galápagos Islands; Gambia [I]; ...
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