Goeppertia crocata

Eternal flame plant is a tropical evergreen perennial of the prayer plant family (Marantaceae) native to the rainforests of Brazil. This plant is known for its yellow-orange flame-like flowers; hence, its common name. The blooms are long-lasting, and the foliage is shiny and green with maroon to purple accents.

This plant prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained all-purpose potting mix. The soil should be evenly moist and not soggy. They thrive in warm and humid environments. To increase the humidity use wet pebbles on a tray or invest in a humidifier. The room temperature should range from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit with humidity levels of 60%. The temperature should remain constant and drafts avoided. Dust the leaves with a clean cloth. If dust accumulates on the leaves, it will interfere with photosynthesis. It is best to propagate this plant by division. 

The eternal flame plant grows 1 foot 8 inches to 2 feet 10 inches tall and has a dense and clumping habit with upright stems. The foliage is elliptic with wavy margins, slightly ridged, dark green on the upper surface, and purple or maroon on the undersides of the leaf. The leaves fold at night fall and open again at sunrise. This plant blooms in the spring and summer and has yellow or orange bracts that enclose the true flower. The true flower is tubular and sits in the center of the bracts on a long stalk. The flowers almost appear torch-like and rise above the foliage.

The eternal flame plant is used as an ornamental houseplant. To insure adequate humidity levels, you may also consider using the plant in a terrarium or under a cloche.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for mealybugs and spider mites. Overwatering can result in root rot. Low humidity can cause leaf curl, and browning of the leaf edges and tips can be the result of using tap water containing fluoride. Distilled water or rain water is recommended.