Goeppertia (Calathea) roseopicta 'Surprise Star' - Information and Plant Care:
Goeppertia (Calathea) roseopicta 'Surprise Star', also known as 'Princess Jessie', adds a vivid splash of color to any indoor garden. Recognized for its striking foliage and bold patterns, this plant features intricate brushstrokes of pink on a deep green to nearly black backdrop. Despite being reclassified under the genus Goeppertia, it remains popularly known as Calathea. This tropical beauty requires thoughtful care, making it an ideal choice for plant enthusiasts seeking a more hands-on, engaging specimen.
Unique Features of Goeppertia (Calathea) roseopicta 'Surprise Star':
- Foliage Color Evolution: Starts with bright green leaves that gradually darken to deep, nearly black tones as the plant matures.
- Distinct Pink Accents: Pink brushstroke-like markings along the leaf margins and midrib.
- Growth Pattern: Moderate grower with a spreading habit, typical of Calathea varieties.
This combination of striking foliage and intricate detailing makes 'Surprise Star' a bold statement in any indoor space, offering both elegance and vibrancy.
How to Care for Goeppertia (Calathea) roseopicta 'Surprise Star':
Light Requirements:
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn and color fading.
- Ideal placement is near a window with filtered light, such as behind sheer curtains.
Watering Needs:
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Use filtered or distilled water to prevent damage from tap water chemicals.
- Water when the top layer of soil begins to dry out.
Humidity:
- Thrives in high humidity environments (60-80%).
- If indoor air is dry, especially in colder months, use a humidifier or place the plant in a naturally humid area.
- Maintain a moist environment to prevent browning edges or curling leaves.
Temperature:
- Best suited for temperatures between 18°C and 24°C.
- Avoid exposure to cold drafts or heaters, as temperature fluctuations can stress the plant.
Fertilizing:
- Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month during the growing season.
- Avoid over-fertilizing as Goeppertia are sensitive to salt buildup.
Common Problems and Practical Solutions for Goeppertia (Calathea) roseopicta 'Surprise Star':
Curling Leaves:
- Check watering schedule and humidity levels; curling typically indicates dry air or underwatering.
- Increase humidity using a humidifier or relocate to a more humid area.
Browning Leaf Edges:
- Often caused by low humidity or use of tap water.
- Switch to distilled or filtered water and raise humidity to resolve the issue.
Yellowing Leaves:
- Sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the pot has good drainage and water only when the topsoil feels slightly dry.
Pests:
- Susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Additional Growing Tips for Goeppertia (Calathea) roseopicta 'Surprise Star':
Placement Tips:
- Place in a well-lit spot with indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- Ensure high humidity and avoid placing near air conditioning vents or heating units.
Pet Friendly:
- Non-toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for households with cats or dogs.
Etymology: The genus name Goeppertia honors Heinrich Göppert, a German botanist known for his work in plant classification. First described in 1831, Goeppertia includes many species originally classified under Calathea. Despite the reclassification, many still refer to these plants as Calatheas, reflecting their popularity in houseplant collections.
Goeppertia (Calathea) roseopicta 'Surprise Star' aka 'Princess Jessie'
Goeppertia (Calathea) roseopicta 'Surprise Star' aka 'Princess Jessie' comes in following Sizes:
baby (XS) - comes in a a ⌀ 6 cm pot and is ca. 12 cm tall.L - comes in a a ⌀ 14cm pot and is ca. 40 cm tall.