This Calathea is sure to stand out in any plant display. Its luxuriant velvety texture adds depth to the leaves' appearance, and the contrast of lime green stripes against a deep green backdrop almost makes it glow. The contrasting foliage also gives it its scientific name, zebrina, comparing it to the striped mammal - though a comparison to a tiger would be equally valid! Part of the prayer plant family, when it's getting enough daylight you will notice this plant moving its leaves up and down in reaction to the availability of light, a process called 'nyctinasty'. Your Calathea will look stunning, it is well-adapted to shadier locations, and it loves moisture and humidity - keep it somewhere its leaves won't be dried by blasts of heating or draughts and you'll be on the way to keeping this showstopper happy.
Scientific Name
Goeppertia zebrina (Göppert's plant with zebra-striped leaves)
Synonyms: Calathea zebrina, Endocodon zebrina, Maranta zebrina, Phrynium zebrinum, Phyllodes zebrina, Calathea binotii, Maranta bicolor, Phrynium bicolor, Phrynium pulchellum
First discovered in the 1820s, this plant has been given several names over the years, most notably Calathea zebrina. It is now accepted as part of the genus Goeppertia, however, a theory which was first posited in 1831, but only recently widely accepted.
Common Name
Zebra Plant, Zebra Calathea
Origin
This Goeppertia is native to rainforest in Southern and Eastern Brazil
Light
Direct sun will scorch this plant's delicate leaves; bright but indirect light is best, and will help keep the leaves vibrant.
Water
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out in between watering - this plant likes consistent moisture in the soil. If possible, use rainwater rather than tapwater, or at least allow tap water to sit out for 24 hours to allow chemicals in it to settle. Water with tepid or lukewarm water to avoid shocking the plant.
Humidity
High humidity is key for this plant, ideally around 60-80% humidity. You can keep it in a group of plants, or pop it in a humidity tray to increase local humidity around the plant. It will prefer to be away from operating heaters which would dry it out, and can do well in a bright bathroom where humidity tends to be higher.
Soil
Plant in fast draining, but moisture retentive soil. A mix with added bark or perlite, or one designed for Calatheas or Marantas, would be ideal. Repot every two years in spring, and water a day in advance to combat transplant shock.
Food
Feed every four waters in spring and summer while the plant is growing the most; reduce to every six over winter when growth slows.
Temperature
Ideal temperature is around 20-26°C; make sure it does not get colder than 12°C in winter.
Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!
Sprouts Top Tips
Calatheas can be fussy, so make sure you choose your location well to keep it in above-average humidity. To keep leaves looking their best, wipe them gently with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis. Avoid placing near heating vents or air conditioners, as fluctuating temperatures can stress the plant and dry the air.
Extras
Small swollen nodules will grow along Calathea roots - this is healthy and they are used to store water and nutrients, so don't cut them off when you're repotting!
Did You Know?
This houseplant has received the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit.
