Goeppertia rufibarba
TAXONOMY
FamilyMarantaceae
GenusGoeppertia
Zone10
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Goeppertia rufibarba, commonly known as Furry Feather or Velvet Calathea, is a perennial plant native to the tropical regions of South America. It is known for its velvety, lance-shaped leaves with a distinctive purple underside. This plant thrives in wet tropical climates and is a popular choice for indoor gardening due to its attractive foliage.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Furry Feather Calathea
Velvet Calathea
Calathea rufibarba
Phyllodes rufibarba
OVERVIEW
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature22° C
Humidity70%
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
To care for Goeppertia rufibarba, provide it with bright, indirect light and maintain moderate temperatures. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, and ensure high humidity levels. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. Regularly misting the plant can help maintain the required humidity.Soil
Goeppertia rufibarba prefers well-draining, loamy soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mix of potting soil with added perlite or orchid bark can provide the necessary drainage and aeration. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.Fertilizer
Fertilize Goeppertia rufibarba with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Reduce feeding during the winter months when the plant's growth slows down.Repotting
Repot Goeppertia rufibarba every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one and refresh the soil mix. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Propagate Goeppertia rufibarba through division during the spring or early summer. Carefully separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots and leaves. Plant the divisions in individual pots with fresh soil and maintain high humidity until they establish.Pruning
Prune Goeppertia rufibarba to remove any dead or yellowing leaves and to maintain its shape. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the leaves at the base. Regular pruning encourages healthy growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy.Toxicity
Goeppertia rufibarba is non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe choice for households with animals and children. However, it is always best to prevent pets from chewing on the leaves to avoid any potential digestive upset.Additional
To enhance the growth of Goeppertia rufibarba, consider using a humidity tray or a room humidifier to maintain the high humidity levels it prefers. Regularly clean the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and allow the plant to photosynthesize efficiently.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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