Calathea zebrina - Zebra Plant

The Calathea zebrina, also known as Zebra Plant, is an exotic houseplant renowned for its unusually striking foliage. Its large, velvety leaves adorned with dark green patterns on a light green background resemble zebra stripes. Its foliage adds an elegant and tropical touch to your interior living space. Perfect for urban jungle, boho chic, or contemporary styles, it has a strong personality. Place it in a bright spot without direct sunlight to prevent its leaves from drying out, and maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level.

The Calathea zebrina, recently renamed Goeppertia zebrina, belongs to the Marantaceae family. It is a herbaceous perennial with an upright and bushy habit, reaching between 60 and 90 cm in height and approximately 50 to 70 cm in spread, depending on growing conditions. Its leaves are ovate to elongated, slightly pointed, and have a velvety texture. Each leaf features dark green veins alternating with light green bands, while the underside has a purplish hue.

Although primarily admired for its foliage, this variety can produce subtle white or lilac flowers in its natural habitat, though they rarely appear indoors. Native to the tropical forests of Brazil, it thrives in humid and shaded environments under dense canopies. In the wild, it enjoys year-round warm temperatures and soil that is both rich in humus and well-drained. Indoors, it requires regular misting and moderate but consistent watering.

The Calathea genus is known for its 'nyctinastic' behaviour, meaning its leaves slightly close at night as if they are 'sleeping'.

The Calathea zebrina will create an exotic and lush atmosphere in your home. Place it in a bright living room without direct sunlight, in the kitchen, or in a bright bathroom where it will thrive thanks to the ambient humidity. To showcase it, opt for a textured ceramic planter or a natural fibre basket, ideal for a boho chic or urban jungle style. Position it on a wall shelf or in the corner of a room to create a lush and welcoming green space.