Goeppertia roseopicta

Common Names

Rose Painted Calathea, Jungle Rose, Prayer Plant

Summary

Rose-painted Calathea is a rhizomatous, clump-forming evergreen perennial native to tropical rainforest floors of South America, with large oval leaves that are dark green with pink/rose/cream markings and purple-red leaf undersides; leaves open by day and fold at night (nyctinasty), reaching about 50 cm tall. Varieties such as Medallion and Dottie illustrate the striking brush-stroke patterns.

In cultivation it prefers bright indirect light, avoids direct sun, and thrives in warm, humid conditions with temperatures around 65–75°F; provide high humidity and a well-draining, consistently moist soil, using distilled or rainwater to prevent mineral buildup. Repot every 1–2 years, fertilize lightly during the growing season, and propagate by division; commonly grown as an indoor decorative foliage plant and is non-toxic to humans and pets.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1-2 feet

Spread

1-2 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 11-12

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-draining, moisture-retentive soil rich in organic matter, typically peat- or coco coir-based potting mix with added perlite or vermiculite; pH 6.0–7.0.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil that remains moist but not waterlogged.

Soil pH

Tolerates all pH levels

Bloom Color

White to purple

Bloom Time

Year-round

Foliage Color

Dark green leaves with pink markings and veins; undersides reddish-purple.

Fall Foliage Color

Pink and red, red undersides

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Fast growth rate; up to 2 ft per growing season.

Seasons of Interest

All four seasons (year-round)

Propagation Methods

Division and Cuttings

Attracts Wildlife

Bees and other pollinators