How to care for Zebra Calathea
Goeppertia zebrina · Marantaceae
Velvety, bright green leaves with bold dark zebra striping, growing from a clump that can reach close to a meter. The soft-textured foliage feels different from the glossier calatheas. It is somewhat sturdier than the thin-leaved species but still wants classic calathea care. Water roughly every 5 days while it's growing (about every 9 in winter), give it a bright room away from the window, kept above 59°F (15°C) — it wants humid air.
Care at a glance
Keep consistently moist with soft water; the velvety leaves droop and curl quickly when the mix dries.
Medium indirect light preserves the velvet texture; direct sun dulls and burns it.
Quarter-strength balanced fertilizer monthly through spring and summer.
Mistakes that kill this plant
- Letting the pot stand in drained water.
- Winter drought stress in heated, dry rooms.
- Repeated cold exposure below 15 C.
Seasonal tips
- It clumps vigorously — divide in spring every couple of years to keep it manageable.
- Ease watering in winter but never let it dry completely.
- Keep it clear of radiators and vents when heating starts.
Is it safe for pets?
Our records list Zebra Calathea as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Full pet-safety details for cats & dogsCare for your Zebra Calathea on autopilot
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Toxicity here is informational, not a safety guarantee. Those are our own records, compiled by following the ASPCA's published toxic and non-toxic plant lists and Pet Poison Helpline's plant poison list rather than copied from them — confirm anything that matters against the ASPCA's published lists, which this one is matched to, or with your vet. If your pet ingested this plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.