Goeppertia zebrina aka Zebraplant

Taxonomy

Goeppertia zebrina, also known as Calathea zebrina or the zebra plant, is a species of plant in the Marantaceae family. Native to southeastern Brazil, this evergreen perennial forms a clump of long-stalked light green leaves that are regularly marked with dark green on each side of the midrib. The underside of the leaves is red-purple in color. Occasionally, it produces spikes of small white or purple flowers during the summer. This houseplant is a showstopper with its striking leaves and can grow up to 3' 3" in height, creating a fountain-like and spreading appearance. However, it is important to note that Goeppertia zebrina is generally intolerant of low humidity, wet or dry soil, low or inconstant temperatures, cold drafts, direct sun, low light, and direct sun. Despite these requirements, this plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Common names

Zebraplant, Prayer Plant

How to care for Zebraplant

Water

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

Soil

Zebraplant 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 Zebraplant prefers bright indirect 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.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Zebraplant is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

The Zebraplant does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

The Zebraplant should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

The Zebraplant is characterized by clumping growth, with new shoots emerging from the soil around the primary plant.

Region of origin

Zebraplant’s native range is Tropical Americas.

Flower

Yes, if you provide your Zebraplant with adequate sunlight and water, you can expect it to bloom.


More info:
Wikipedia