Calathea orbifolia
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
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1ABotanical 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
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.