Nicoteba betonica — a medium houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Nicoteba betonica

Nicoteba Betonica

Updated · 108 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Nicoteba betonica is a species of flowering plant native to Africa and Indian subcontinent.

A note from PlantMom

Squirrel's tail has strong resistance to diseases and is generally not prone to illness. However, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its environment. Such infections are typically mild. Regarding care, this plant requires a moderate level of attention. It should be pruned regularly to maintain an attractive appearance and support healthy growth. Applying fertilizer can also encourage flowering. Squirrel's tail is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand much gardening experience. It may need extra care when grown indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Nicoteba Betonica.

Light

Squirrel's tail performs best with plentiful sunlight, a trait tied to its native habitat. It can tolerate areas with weaker sun, but inadequate light may restrict its growth. Too much sun, however, can cause leaf scorch and wilting.

Temperature

Squirrel's tail comes from tropical regions, where the climate is generally warm and humid. As a result, it is well adapted to high temperatures and humidity. It is sensitive to sudden temperature changes and prefers a stable temperature environment, so it is important to avoid temperature fluctuations indoors. It usually cannot tolerate cold temperatures and needs high temperatures for growth. If the environmental temperature drops too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.

Fertilizer

Proper fertilization is essential for Squirrel's tail's health and appearance. Fertilize Squirrel's tail in summer, repeating the application monthly throughout summer. Nutrients provide the energy for growth and help maintain the plant's components. Fertilization improves Squirrel's tail's flower display, ensuring the best blooms.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Nicoteba
Family
Acanthaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-11
Mature Height
61 cm to 91 cm
Mature Spread
61 cm to 91 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Semi-evergreen
Flower Color
White, Pink
Flower Size
2.54 cm
Bloom Time
All year round
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
All year round
Native Area
Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, Angola, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Sudan, Bangladesh, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Mali, Mozambique, Myanmar, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Congo (DRC), Botswana
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en White shrimp plant en Squirrel's tail
PLATES
Nicoteba betonica leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Nicoteba betonica leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Nicoteba betonica flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Nicoteba betonica flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Nicoteba betonica fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Nicoteba betonica fruit
PLATE 06 · fruit