Reclassified Calathea Plants

Are you looking for a plant to brighten up an indoor space? Consider one of these calathea plants that have recently been reclassified as Goeppertia. Goeppertia zebrina and commonly known as zebra plant, has striking ornamental leaves which feature zebra-like stripes. This compact evergreen perennial has dark green leaves with showy, broad, parallel chartreuse stripes. The leaves fold together at dusk exposing the silvery-light green undersides in a manner somewhat resembling praying hands, hence the sometimes used common name of prayer plant. Goeppertia makoyana, also known as the peacock plant, has striking foliage that is said to resemble the beauty of a peacock’s tail. It features broad, oval leaves with pale creamy-white backgrounds and oval dark green designs and striping. The dark green markings are pinkish-purple on the undersides of the leaves. Goeppertia insignis is commonly called rattlesnake plant. Its wavy-margined linear leaf blades are pale green, variegated with attractive dark green elliptic blotches on both sides of the midrib with thin dark green marginal leaf edges. The undersides of the leaves are reddish purple to maroon in color. Each leaf is said to resemble the markings found on some rattlesnakes, hence the common name for this plant. There are many visually attractive house plants to choose from to brighten up your indoor spaces. Check your local nurseries and garden centers to see what’s available. I am Eddie Smith, and I will see you next time on Southern Gardening.