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Goeppertia ornata imagePhoto: Author Fuzzform at English WikipediaCC BY-SA 3.0

Striped Calathea

Goeppertia ornata

Also known as: Goeppertia Ornata, Pin-stripe Calathea, Pinstripe Plant
Native to Tropical regions of Colombia and Venezuela

Goeppertia ornata is a tropical perennial plant in the Marantaceae family, known for its striking foliage. It features large, oval-shaped leaves with dark green surfaces adorned with thin, parallel pink or white stripes (pinstripes) that radiate from the central vein. The undersides of the leaves are often deep purple. Like other prayer plants, its leaves exhibit nyctinasty, moving upward at night and lowering during daylight. It typically grows in clumps and thrives as a compact indoor plant.

Plant Care Overview

Difficultymoderate
LightBright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorching
WaterWater when the top 1-2 inches of soil dry out; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging
Humidityhigh

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Care Guide

Essential requirements for your Goeppertia ornata

Light & Location

Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorching

Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.

Water & Humidity

Watering Schedule

Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil dry out; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging

Humidity Needs

high humidity

Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.

Temperature & Environment

Temperature Range

65–80°F (18–27°C); avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C)

Native Climate

Native to Tropical regions of Colombia and Venezuela

Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.

Soil & Nutrition

Soil Type

Well-draining, peat-based potting mix with perlite or orchid bark

Fertilizer

Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season

Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.

Propagation

Methods to grow more Goeppertia ornata plants

Division of rhizomes during repotting in spring

Plant Info

Characteristics and background information

Plant Characteristics
Native Region

Tropical regions of Colombia and Venezuela

Growth Rate

slow

Mature Size

Up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall and wide

Lifecycle

perennial

Pet Safety
Pet Safe

Fun Fact

Its leaves perform a daily 'prayer-like' movement, folding upward at night and lowering during the day in response to light changes.

Troubleshooting

Solutions for typical issues with your Goeppertia ornata

Leaf curling or browning
Symptoms

Leaf edges curl inward or develop brown tips

Spider mites
Symptoms

Fine webbing on leaves, yellow speckling, or stippling

Root rot
Symptoms

Yellowing leaves, wilting, or foul-smelling soil

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