Flowering is nearly year-round, and leaves persist with supplemental water during the worst heat. Although they typically are found in exposed sites in their native habitat, justicias are among the few species in the desert Southwest that put on a good flower show in light shade. Justicia brandegeana , shrimp plant. Tubular, white flowers enclosed in bronze bracts form drooping spikes that resemble shrimp. Although it requires more water than the other three, it will stand temperatures up into the 100s.
Partial shade enhances foliage and flower color.
Somewhat drooping form is good in planters. Justicia californica , chuparosa. Can clamber up a tree or wall. Dark-red, tubular flowers will remain red when dried. Grayer stems and foliage than the other species.