Zebra Prayer Plant Goeppertia zebrina

Zebra plant is an evergreen rhizomatous perennial in the arrowroot (Marantaceae) family that is native to Brazil. It has become popular as a houseplant in temperate areas and won the Garden of Merit Award from the Royal Horticultural Society. In its natural habitat, the plant is found in forest areas shaded by trees without direct sunlight. The plant will grow up to 3 ft tall and wide as a house plant.

The genus is in honor of the German botanist Johann Heinrich Robert Goeppert. The name of the species comes from the Latin “zebrina” in reference to the leaves.

The long stems carry showy leaves up to 20 inches long. The dark green velvety leaves are etched along the spines, veins and margins with lime green giving it a striped look. The undersides are purple. The flowers are inconspicuous white to purple flowers on upright stalks but the plant rarely blooms as a houseplant.

Zebra plant requires temperatures between 65-75 F (no lower than 60), humidity at 60- 80% and bright but indirect light. Avoid sudden temperature changes and drafts. Use a fertile moist but well-drained potting soil and water and fertilize regularly from spring to fall. Keep the soil moist but not overly wet as root rot can occur.  Mist frequently to increase the humidity. If placed outdoors in the summer be sure to bring it inside if temperatures drop below 60 degrees F. Repot every 2 years and propagate by division.

Use this plant in the home if you can meet the requirements. It also will do well in large terrariums or in greenhouses or conservatories if given shade.

Quick ID Hints:

• Leaf is light green with dark green stripes
• Leaf is lanceolate, velvety, underside is purple
• Even, dark stripes are forked toward margin

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  At risk of root rot if overwatered. Fairly pest-resistant, but can be affected by spider mites, aphids, mealybugs and scale at times.