The shrimp plant is one of the most unusual plants in Coastal Bend gardens. Its reddish-pink bracts and white flowers sway on spiny stems, resembling shrimp swimming in the garden.
This shrimp-like appearance comes from the bracts, which are neither leaves nor flowers. Acting like armor, the bracts protect the smaller white flower that emerges from their tip, and their vibrant reddish hue draws in pollinators, guiding them toward the pollen-rich center. Butterflies and hummingbirds adore shrimp plants. Blooming from early spring until fall, the plants attract pollinators from the first flower through winter. Frost will kill the plant, but it typically regrows from the roots in spring. To protect from freezing, make sure to mulch with native leaves during cold months.
For potted shrimp plants, try the yellow variety. This rare and stunning plant features golden bracts instead of pink, but is less hardy than the more resilient reddish-pink type.
Gardener’s Notes
Growing Up: Spacing, 18”. Height, 24” to 48”
Shrimp plants thrive in full sun with some afternoon shade. Plant by transplant or cuttings in well-drained soil. For best results, amend the soil with 4 inches of organic compost, half a cup of pastured poultry manure and half a cup of wood ash per square foot. Regular waterings during summer promote the best blooms. Side dress with two cups of poultry manure in September.
Plant shrimp plants in rows to form hedges, but note the space will likely be bare in January and February. They also make striking backdrops or ground covers. For bushier growth, trim young plants at the tips. If the plant freezes, cut it to the ground to encourage regrowth. To propagate, cut healthy stems just below a node. Trim leaves and place stems in water until roots form, then transfer to potting soil.
Pro Tip: Shrimp plant blooms make striking cut flowers.
The reddish-pink bracts, dark green leaves and white flowers create vibrant bouquets. Hardy blooms last days in vases but wilt if refrigerated. One of the best displays we’ve seen featured shrimp plant flowers in shrimp cocktail glasses, with blooms hovering over real shrimp!