This rhizomatous perennial forms clumps with fleshy stems and oval olive-green leaves that have parallel pinkish markings. The white to violet tubed-shaped flowers appear in a small spike during summer and are not commonly seen on cultivated plants.

Hardiness zones 9 to 10

Calathea sanderiana is naturally found in tropical northern South America growing as an understorey plant in humid moist rainforests. 

It prefers a well drained organic rich moist soil in a semi shaded wind protected position and is drought and frost tender.

This Calatheal is grown for is attractive foliage and clumping habit. It is planted in small or tropical gardens along low borders or as understory and is used around water features. It is also grown as a container plant for both indoors and outdoors in warm climates and establishes from division in 1 to 2 years. In cold climates it is grown under glass, requiring a brightly lit humid position with wind protection. ID 266

Calathea (kal-aTHEE-a / ka-LAY-thee-a) sanderiana (sand-ree-ā-na)

Marantaceae (MAR-an-TAY-see-ee)
Arrowroot