Calathea roseopicta Green

The Calathea roseopicta 'Green', also known as the Rose-Painted Calathea, Prayer Plant or Calathea dottie, is a cultivar with large ovate to round dark green leaves adorned with a white to cream pattern along the midline and along, but further in than, the line of the borders towards the outer edge of the lamina. This houseplant makes a beautiful addition to a living room or office with moderate light. It thrives in ambient humidity of around 60% and prefers a well-drained substrate kept moist but not waterlogged. For successful cultivation, ensure it is watered with non-calcareous water and kept away from cold drafts.

A member of the Marantaceae family, the Calathea roseopicta, the origin of the 'Green' cultivar, has since been reclassified into the genus Goeppertia and renamed Goeppertia roseopicta. It is also known by the botanical synonyms Maranta roseopicta and Phyllodes roseopicta. This bushy-habit perennial reaches approximately 50 to 60 cm in height and spread at maturity depending on growing conditions. Its foliage consists of large, ovate, dark green leaves marked with white. Although it may occasionally produce small white flowers indoors, its leaves are its true prime standing out feature.

Native to the tropical forests of South America, this plant thrives in its natural habitat in humid undergrowth sheltered from direct sunlight. It prefers relatively high humidity and temperatures between 18 and 24 °C. The Calathea roseopicta is not hardy and cannot tolerate temperatures below 10 °C, but it is non-toxic, making it a safe choice for homes with pets or children.

The Calathea roseopicta 'Green' will thrive in a sunlit conservatory or a minimalist-styled living room. Display it in a white or gold ceramic pot and pair it with other varieties featuring contrasting foliage, such as the Calathea ‘Maui Queen’ with its cream highlights against deep green, or the Calathea orbifolia, famed for its broad silver-striped leaves. Whether placed on a shelf adorned with wicker baskets or in an urban jungle setting with mixed foliage, it will stands out with its charm. Versatile, it suits both sophisticated and relaxed interiors, adding a natural yet chic touch to your home.