Goeppertia gandersii (Gandersii Calathea)

Goeppertia gandersii is a tropical perennial in the Marantaceae family endemic to Ecuador, where it grows in wet tropical lowland forest. It forms clumps of broad green leaves with strongly undulating margins, dark elongated blotches along the midrib, and burgundy to purple undersides. This distinctive combination gives the foliage a bold, sculptural appearance. The species is rare and poorly documented in cultivation.

Its natural habitat includes humid terra firme and lowland evergreen forest at about 590-770 ft elevation. Cultivated plants prefer warm, humid conditions, moist but well-drained soil, and protection from direct sun, although species-specific cultivation data are limited. It is best grown in warm indoor or greenhouse conditions outside tropical climates.