Goeppertia albertii

Emerald feather calathea is a showy, tropical, evergreen, rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial species that is native to the tropical areas of southeast Brazil. The plant has 2 to 5 leaves that forms a compact, dense, upright, clumping habit that measures up to 2 feet tall. The genus name, Goeppertia, is in honor of a German botanist, Johann Heinrich Robert Goeppert. The origin of the specific epithet is unknown. It is a member of the prayer plant family ( Marantaceae).

This plant prefers partial to dappled shade and well-drained loamy soils with rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic pH. It requires high humidity of up to 60 to 70%. Direct sunlight will damage the leaves. It is not frost tolerant and is hardy in US Plant Hardiness Zones 10 to 11. Avoid cold drafts. The plant prefers temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the soil moist by watering regularly but avoid soggy soils. It may be propagated by division. 

The petiole is 2 to 6 inches long, and the leaves are oblong to ovate  with a pointed apex and wavy margins.The leaves measure 4 to 8 inches long and 2 to 4 inches wide. The upper surface of the leaf is a glossy dark green with a pale or lime green feathering on either side of the central vein. The undersides are green with shades of pale purple. The flowers appear on a 3 to 4-inch stalk with green ovate bracts. The flower is white with a tubular corolla and 3 lance-shaped lobes. The fruit is a capsule that dehisces when mature and releases 3 seeds. 

In warm and tropical climates, emerald feather Calathea can be used for borders or as a groundcover. It may also be used as a showy tropical houseplant as long the temperature and humidity requirements are met. Its striking foliage will provide interest to your home or office.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, scale, slugs, and snails. Goeppertias may be susceptible to root rot  and bacterial and fungal spot if they are overwatered. Provide good air circulation and avoid overwatering. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves.