Goeppertia zebrina - Zebra Plant Calathea

Goeppertia zebrina, commonly known as the Zebra Plant Calathea, is a striking tropical species native to Brazil. Its velvety, lance-shaped leaves feature bold, lime-green stripes against a deep green background, creating a distinctive zebra-like pattern. The undersides of the leaves are a rich purple, adding to its visual appeal. This plant exhibits nyctinastic movements, where the leaves fold upward at night and lower during the day. In Perth's climate, it thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity, making it ideal for indoor spaces like bathrooms or kitchens. While it can produce small, inconspicuous white to purple flowers in spring (Djilba – Early Spring), flowering is rare indoors.

To care for the Zebra Plant Calathea, maintain consistently moist but well-draining soil, such as a mix of peat and perlite. Use filtered or distilled water to avoid leaf tip browning caused by fluoride and chlorine in tap water. Keep humidity levels high, ideally above 60%, by using a humidifier or placing the plant on a pebble tray with water. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves, and protect the plant from drafts and temperature fluctuations. Fertilise monthly during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser diluted to half strength. Repot every two years in spring to refresh the soil and accommodate growth.

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