Goeppertia crocata

Common Names

Eternal Flame, Eternal Flame Plant, Saffron-Coloured Calathea, Saffron Calathea, Tassmania

Summary

Eternal Flame Plant, Calathea crocata, is a tropical evergreen perennial native to the rainforest floors of eastern Brazil (Bahia and Espírito Santo). It forms a dense clump up to about 60 cm tall with dark green leaves and purple undersides, and bears saffron-orange flame-like bracts on tall peduncles; nyctinastic leaves fold at night.

It thrives in bright indirect light with warm, humid conditions (18–27°C; 60–80% humidity), in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil kept evenly moist but not waterlogged; water using distilled or rainwater; repot every 1–2 years and propagate by division; commonly used as an indoor ornamental and in shaded landscapes.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1-3 feet

Spread

1-2 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 10a-12b

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade, tolerates partial sun.

Soil Type

Well-draining, moisture-retentive, airy soil, peat-based potting mix, pH 6.0–6.5

Soil Drainage

Well-drained, moist but not soggy soil

Soil pH

6.0-6.5 (slightly acidic)

Bloom Color

Orange to saffron-yellow

Bloom Time

Spring and Summer

Foliage Color

Green leaves with purple undersides

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow growth

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Division, Seeds

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies