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Description
Goeppertia Rufibarba, also known as the Velvet Calathea or Furry Feather, is an ornamental plant that belongs to the Marantaceae family. Native to Brazil, this plant is widely grown for its striking foliage and attractive appearance. It has broad, oval-shaped leaves that are a lush green color on top and a deep burgundy on the underside. The leaves are covered with fine hairs that give them a velvety texture, hence the name Velvet Calathea.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Genus | Goeppertia |
Appearance
The Velvet Calathea plant has broad, ovate leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. The leaves are a lush green color on top and a deep burgundy on the underside, with a velvety texture due to the fine hairs covering them. The plant grows in a clump and can reach a height of up to 2 feet. It produces small, white flowers that bloom sporadically throughout the year.
Care Guide
Goeppertia Rufibarba is a low maintenance plant that thrives in bright, indirect light. It prefers to be kept in a humid environment and will benefit from regular misting. It should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch, and the soil should be well-draining to prevent water-logging. A balanced fertilizer can be applied monthly during the growing season. The plant prefers a warm, tropical climate and is hardy in zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Velvet Calathea plant is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to curl and brown. The plant is also sensitive to cold temperatures and should be kept away from drafts.
Habitat
Goeppertia Rufibarba is native to Brazil and is found growing in tropical rainforests. It prefers a warm, humid environment and thrives in areas with high rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Velvet Calathea plant?
A: Water your plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can I grow a Velvet Calathea plant indoors?
A: Yes, the plant thrives in bright, indirect light and is an ideal indoor plant.
Q: Does the Velvet Calathea plant produce flowers?
A: Yes, it produces small, white flowers that bloom sporadically throughout the year.
Q: What is the Velvet Calathea plant’s hardiness zone?
A: The plant is hardy in zones 10-12, which have warm, tropical climates.
Related Plants
- Goeppertia ornata (Pinstripe Calathea)
- Goeppertia lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant)
- Goeppertia zebrina (Zebra Plant)
References
- “Goeppertia Rufibarba.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 June 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b558.
- “Velvet Calathea.” Gardenista. Accessed 28 June 2021. www.gardenista.com/posts/gardening-101-velvet-calathea-care-guide/.
- “Goeppertia Rufibarba.” Plant Care Today. Accessed 28 June 2021. www.plantcaretoday.com/goeppertia-rufibarba-velvet-calathea-plant-care.
