Pachystachys lutea, the Golden Shrimp Plant or Lollipop Plant, is an eye-catching evergreen shrub grown for its upright, cone-shaped spikes of glowing golden-yellow bracts, from which slender white flowers emerge. Native to Central and South America, it forms a neat, bushy plant that blooms generously through the warm months and draws butterflies and sunbirds. With deep green textured leaves setting off the vivid flower heads, it is a striking choice for borders, beds and containers in India's warm, frost-free gardens and bright balconies.
Specifications
| Family |
Acanthaceae |
| Native region |
Central and South America |
| Mature height |
0.6-1.2 m |
| Mature spread |
0.5-0.9 m |
| Growth rate |
Moderate to fast |
| Foliage |
Deep green, veined ovate leaves |
| Flower colour |
Golden-yellow bracts, white flowers |
| Flower season |
Warm months, long blooming |
| Climate zone |
Tropical to subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Bright light; full sun to partial shade |
| Watering |
Keep evenly moist; do not let it dry out fully |
| Soil / mix |
Rich, fertile, well-draining loamy soil |
| Temperature |
16-32 C; protect from frost |
| Humidity |
Moderate to high |
| Fertilizer |
Balanced feed every 2-4 weeks in season |
| Pruning |
Prune after flowering to keep compact |
| Repotting |
Every 1-2 years in spring |
| Propagation |
Easy from softwood cuttings |
| Pests & problems |
Spider mites, whitefly, aphids |
| Toxicity / safety |
Considered non-toxic |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
A bold ornamental for borders, beds, foundation plantings and large containers, and a reliable nectar source for butterflies and sunbirds in pollinator gardens.
Growing tips
In India it performs best in bright light with steady moisture and regular feeding; prune lightly after each bloom flush and shelter it from drying winds and harsh afternoon sun.