This fast growing rhizomatous perennial has erect stems and forms a clump with arching oblong bright green striped leaves. It has small violet tube-shaped flowers that appear in a spike during summer on mature plants. It is grown as a houseplant tolerating a low light position.  

Hardiness zones 11 to 12 

Calathea burle-marxii is naturally found growing in tropical Brazil as an understorey plant preferring moist organic rich well-drained soils. It prefers a semi-shade to bright filtered light position with wind, frost and drought protection.

This spreading perennial is grown as an understorey or container plant. It is also used as a ground cover in tropical gardens or around a water feature establishing from division in 1 to 2 years. It is commonly used as a houseplant tolerating low light conditions. ID 1383

Calathea (kal-aTHEE-a / ka-LAY-thee-a) burle-marxii (bur-lee-mar-x-ee)
It is named after a Brazilian landscaper, Roberto Burleian.

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