Goeppertia orbifolia

RHS Plant Profile
round-leaved calathea

Synonyms

Calathea orbifolia
Calathea rotundifolia

Conservatory Greenhouse Houseplants

A clump-forming, evergreen foliage plant to around 75cm, with large, round green leaves marked with pale silvery-green stripes, silver-green on the underside. A great choice as an air-purifying houseplant

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1A

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Marantaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming, Columnar upright
Genus
Goeppertia are evergreen rhizomatous perennials forming clumps of elliptic leaves, often attractively-patterned; racemes of small tubular flowers are seldom produced in cultivation. Previously included within the genus Calathea
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Best grown under glass as it requires a constant temperature of at least 16°C. Grow in peat-free potting compost, with bright indirect or filtered light and high humidity, keep away from draughts. Water moderately when in growth and keep just moist in winter. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly

Propagation

Propagate by division of rhizomes in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Houseplants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

Cut away dead leaves as necessary

Pests

May be susceptible to glasshouse whitefly and glasshouse red spider mite

Diseases

Generally disease-free