About Goeppertia zebrina (Sims) Nees
Goeppertia zebrina (Sims) Nees is an evergreen perennial that reaches up to 1 meter (3 feet 3 inches) in height. Its leaves are held on long stalks that grow to 30 centimeters (12 inches); the leaves themselves are elliptical, measuring 45 centimeters (18 inches) or more in length. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green, while the lower surface is dark red, with spines, veins, and margins outlined in lime green. This plant is tender and requires a minimum temperature of 16 °C (61 °F). In temperate regions, it is grown indoors as a houseplant. Normal room temperature around 20 °C is suitable for it year-round. It prefers a brightly lit location but cannot tolerate direct sunlight. Soil should be kept consistently moist throughout the summer, as this species cannot withstand drought during this period. Fertilizer can be applied every other week during the growing season from spring through fall, and no nutritional supplement is needed over winter. To maintain the pleasant leaf humidity this plant prefers, it can be showered with tepid water as often as possible. Repotting can be done as needed during the spring.
