Goeppertia crocata

Taxonomy

Goeppertia crocata, also known as Calathea crocata, is a stunning saffron-colored calathea or eternal flame plant. This flowering plant, belonging to the family Marantaceae, is native to the Bahia and Espírito Santo states of eastern Brazil. With its clump-forming habit, this evergreen perennial can reach a height of 25cm. Its wavy-leaf blades are deep green, flushed with a dark purple shade on top and a vibrant crimson-red hue beneath. During the summer and sporadically throughout the year, Goeppertia crocata produces eye-catching bright orange flowers in upright spikes. This plant has deservedly received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit for its ornamental value in hothouses. Formerly known as Calatheas, many of these houseplants now fall under the genus Goeppertia. These plants are admired for their beautifully patterned leaves, which come in a variety of colors and shapes. They are commonly referred to as prayer plants due to their nyctinasty behavior, where the leaves fold up at night.

How to care for Goeppertia crocata

Water

Goeppertia crocata should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Goeppertia crocata loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Goeppertia crocata prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Humidity

The Goeppertia crocata does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

Fertilizer

The Goeppertia crocata should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Goeppertia crocata’s native range is Tropical Americas.


More info:
Wikipedia