Goeppertia crocata

Eternal Flame Plant, Saffron Calathea, Saffron Colored Calathea

Moderate careTerrestrialNon-toxic50–85 cm

A tropical perennial from the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest, valued for its orange flame-like flower bracts that can last up to three months. The dark green, glossy leaves have purple-maroon undersides and display nyctinasty — folding upward at nightfall and reopening at dawn. It does best in high humidity and indirect light, making it a good candidate for closed terrariums.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Eternal Flame Plant image

Photo by Assianir·CC BY-SA 3.0

Care

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Bright indirect

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Very high (80%+)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
18°C – 27°C

Soil

Peat moss(preferred)Well drainingLoamy

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7

Appearance

Growth habit

ClumpingUpright

Leaf shape

Oval

Leaf texture

Glossy

Distribution

Propagation

Divide established clumps during spring repotting. Gently separate natural divisions, making sure each section has at least one leaf, a sprout, and healthy roots. Handle the roots carefully — they are fragile and prone to transplant shock.