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Zebra Plant - Calathea Zebrina

King Anthurium, better known as Anthurium Veitchii, is one of the most iconic and sought after collector houseplants in the world. Famous for its long, heavily corrugated foliage that can eventually hang like green velvet ribbons, this extraordinary tropical plant earns its royal title with ease. Young plants may look fairly modest, but with time, patience and the right conditions, Anthurium Veitchii transforms into an absolute showstopper. Mature specimens can produce spectacular rippled leaves that make it one of the most impressive foliage plants you can grow indoors.

🌿 Skill level Intermediate
☀️ Best Spot Bright Indirect Light
🪴 Size Approx. Approx. 20–35cm tall in a 12cm nursery pot
⚠️ Pet / Child Safe No, toxic if eaten
Regular price £38.00 GBP
Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.
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Calathea zebrina is native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, where it grows under dense canopy in warm, humid conditions with filtered light. Like most Calatheas (now often grouped under Goeppertia), it thrives in stable environments and responds strongly to changes in moisture, light and humidity.

The Zebra Plant care guide and FAQs below cover light, watering, humidity and troubleshooting to help you understand this beautifully patterned but slightly sensitive plant. If you're looking for bold foliage with real visual impact, this is one of the most iconic Calatheas.

Explore more Calatheas or browse our rare houseplants collection for more patterned indoor plants.

Buy Zebra Plant online with UK delivery, or collect from our Congleton plant shop. This tropical foliage plant is perfect for plant lovers who enjoy detail, movement and a bit of a challenge.

If you have pets or children at home, explore our Child & Pet Safe plants too.

 

More About Anthurium Veitchii

Few houseplants command attention quite like the King Anthurium.

Unlike many collector plants that are prized for variegation or colour, Veitchii is all about texture and size. As the plant matures, its leaves become increasingly elongated and deeply corrugated, creating a stunning rippled effect.

One of the reasons collectors fall in love with this plant is its transformation over time. A juvenile Veitchii can look completely different from its mature form, making every new leaf an exciting milestone.

Although often considered a collector's plant, Anthurium Veitchii isn't necessarily difficult. It simply appreciates consistency, warmth and an airy root environment.

Anthurium Veitchii is an epiphytic, self heading Anthurium with an upright growth habit. Over time, its leaves become longer and begin to arch and cascade, creating a beautiful fountain like appearance.

Why You'll Love Anthurium Veitchii

🪴 One of the most impressive foliage plants you can grow.

🪴 Stunning corrugated leaves that become more dramatic with age.

🪴 Every new leaf feels bigger and better than the last.

🪴 Creates an incredible tropical statement indoors.

🪴 Surprisingly manageable once you understand its needs.

Anthurium Veitchii is Perfect For

✔ Rare plant collectors

✔ Plant cabinets

✔ Bright living spaces

✔ Tropical plant lovers

✔ Anyone wanting a true statement piece

Top Growing Tip for Anthurium Veitchii

Don't be tempted to plant your Veitchii in regular heavy compost. The roots love airflow. An airy, chunky substrate is often the difference between a struggling plant and a thriving one.

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Anthurium Veitchii Care Guide

Light
Thrives in bright indirect light. It can tolerate a little gentle morning sun, but harsh afternoon rays may scorch the foliage. Too little light can result in slower growth and smaller leaves.
Water
Water when the top portion of the substrate begins to dry. Anthurium Veitchii appreciates consistent moisture but absolutely hates sitting in soggy compost.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity and grows exceptionally well above 60%. However, many plants adapt surprisingly well to average UK homes provided airflow and watering are correct.
Temperature
Thrives between 18-28°C. Avoid cold draughts, chilly windowsills and temperatures below 15°C.
Soil / Substrate
Use a very airy aroid mix containing orchid bark, coco chips, perlite and a small amount of houseplant compost. Excellent drainage and airflow are essential.
Feeding / Fertilising
Feed once a month during spring and summer using a balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength.
Repotting
Repot every 1-2 years or when roots begin to outgrow the pot. Avoid oversized pots, as they can retain too much moisture around the roots.
Pet / Child Safety
Not pet or child safe. Like other Anthuriums, Anthurium Veitchii contains calcium oxalate crystals and should be kept out of reach of pets and children.

Anthurium Veitchii FAQs

Is Anthurium Veitchii difficult to care for?

It's best suited to confident beginners or intermediate plant parents. The biggest challenge is getting the watering and substrate balance right.

Does Anthurium Veitchii need high humidity?

Yellowing leaves are usually caused by overwatering or substrate staying wet for too long.

Why are my Veitchii leaves turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves are usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage.

Is Anthurium Veitchii a climbing plant?

No. It is an epiphytic, self heading Anthurium and doesn't require a moss pole.

Why are my Veitchii leaf tips brown?

Low humidity, inconsistent watering or mineral build up from hard water can all contribute to browning tips.

How often should I water my King Anthurium?

Typically every 7-10 days during active growth, but always check the substrate rather than watering on a schedule.

Can Anthurium Veitchii live in a bathroom?

Yes, bright bathrooms can provide excellent humidity and warmth.

Is Anthurium Veitchii fast growing?

Growth is generally moderate. It isn't the fastest Anthurium, but the leaves become increasingly spectacular over time.

Why is my new Vetichii leaf damaged?

New leaves can sometimes snag while unfurling, especially if humidity is very low.

Can Anthurium Veitchii flower?

Yes. Mature plants can produce green and cream inflorescences, although they're primarily grown for their incredible foliage.

How big can Anthurium Veitchii get?

Mature specimens can produce leaves well over a metre long indoors given enough time and the right conditions.

Need More Help With Anthurium Veitchii?

If your King Anthurium isn't looking quite so royal, don't panic. Most problems come down to watering, light or substrate and are usually easy to correct with a few small adjustments.

Drop us a message, or bring it in store and we'll help your King Anthurium reclaim its crown.