Goeppertia (Calathea) rufibarba 'Wavestar' – Velvety Foliage and Rhythmic Elegance Indoors
Goeppertia rufibarba 'Wavestar' is a uniquely textured tropical plant with ruffled, lance-shaped leaves and a soft velvet surface. This cultivar is known for its rich dark green upper surface and deep purple undersides, which become more visible as the plant folds its leaves upward at night — a rhythmic motion known as nyctinasty. Its upright, clumping form and tactile appeal make it a favorite for living spaces that need both texture and subtle drama.
Goeppertia rufibarba 'Wavestar' – Leaf Texture, Size, and Growth Habit
- Leaf Surface: Matte, velvety texture with a feathered, slightly wavy margin
- Underside Hue: Vivid maroon to purple visible during nighttime leaf movement
- Growth Form: Upright and bushy; reaches 60–100 cm in indoor conditions
- Non-Toxic: Safe for households with pets and children
- Natural Movement: Leaves raise at night and lower by day in response to light
Botanical Background of Goeppertia rufibarba 'Wavestar'
- Accepted Name: Goeppertia rufibarba (Fenzl) Borchs. & S.Suárez
- Basionym: Calathea rufibarba Fenzl, described in 1861
- Native Range: Brazil – humid forest understory with filtered light and warm, moist air
- Family: Marantaceae
How to Grow and Care for Goeppertia rufibarba 'Wavestar'
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Tolerates partial shade; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf fading or crisping.
- Watering: Keep the substrate evenly moist. Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries. Always use distilled or rainwater to avoid fluoride damage.
- Humidity: Maintain levels above 60%. Use a humidifier or place with other tropicals for a microclimate.
- Temperature: Optimal range is 18–24 °C. Protect from cold air and sudden fluctuations.
- Soil: Use an airy mix of peat-free substrate with perlite and orchid bark for drainage.
- Fertilizing: Feed monthly during active growth using a balanced, low-salt liquid fertilizer.
- Repotting: Every 1–2 years in spring. Choose pots with drainage holes.
- Pruning: Remove damaged or faded leaves at the base with sterile shears.
- Propagation: Divide rhizomes during repotting; ensure each division has roots and foliage.
Common Issues and Solutions for Goeppertia rufibarba 'Wavestar'
- Brown Edges: Usually due to dry air or hard tap water. Switch to filtered water and raise humidity.
- Yellow Leaves: Often caused by soggy soil. Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency.
- Drooping Leaves: A sign of underwatering or cold stress. Water thoroughly and stabilize temperature.
- Pests: Watch for spider mites and aphids. Treat with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce biological pest control.
Additional Growing Tips for Goeppertia rufibarba 'Wavestar'
- Positioning: Avoid placing next to heaters or cold windowpanes.
- Leaf Cleaning: Gently dust leaves with a cloth or leaf-care gloves to enhance light absorption.
- Hydroponics: Can adapt to passive hydro setups like LECA with consistent humidity and nutrients.
Fascinating Facts about Goeppertia rufibarba 'Wavestar'
- Nicknamed "Furry Feather Calathea" for its distinctive soft leaf texture.
- Nyctinastic leaf movement offers dynamic visual appeal, especially in low light conditions.
Etymology
- Genus: Goeppertia honors Heinrich Göppert, a German botanist and paleobotanist
- Species: rufibarba means "red beard" in Latin, referring to the fine reddish hairs on leaf stalks
FAQs – Goeppertia rufibarba 'Wavestar'
→ Why are the leaves curling?
- Typically due to low humidity or drought stress. Increase humidity and water more regularly.
→ Can I propagate this plant at home?
- Yes – divide the rhizome during repotting, ensuring each section has roots and healthy foliage.
→ How often should I water it?
- When the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering and always check substrate moisture first.
Order Goeppertia rufibarba 'Wavestar' Today!
Add texture and movement to your indoor jungle with Goeppertia rufibarba 'Wavestar'. Its velvety leaves and sculptural form make it a true standout. Buy now and enjoy this botanical showstopper year-round.
Goeppertia (Calathea) rufibarba 'Wavestar'
€29.50Price
VAT Included
Goeppertia (Calathea) rufibarba 'Wavestar' comes in following sizes:
L – is approximately 70 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 19 cm pot.
XL – is approximately 80 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 27 cm pot.
