Goeppertia lietzei (Goeppertia lietzei)
Goeppertia lietzei is reported to be a clumping, compact, bushy herb. It is reported to be a tropical evergreen perennial herb.
Overview
Goeppertia lietzei is reported to be a clumping, compact, bushy herb. It is reported to be a tropical evergreen perennial herb.
Origin and habitat
Goeppertia lietzei is native to eastern Brazil, with NC State further identifying northeastern and southeastern Brazil. It occurs in tropical environments and has been recorded growing in disturbed forest in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. It is reported to occur in tropical, warm, highly humid conditions.
Characteristics
Few sources report a mature height of about 30.48–40.64 cm and a mature spread of about 30.48–40.64 cm. The simple, elongated oval leaves are thick and leathery with wavy margins; the typical form has light green stripes extending from the midrib to the margins over a dark green background, while 'White Fusion' has individually varying white, green, and purple patterns and wavy leaf margins, and the leaves fold upward at night and reopen after sunrise. The small, tubular flowers range from white to greenish white, with inflorescences composed of multiple bracts on slender flower stalks, and flowering is rare when grown indoors. Flowering is reported from late spring through summer.
Light
Bright indirect light to partial shade is generally recommended, while strong direct sunlight should be avoided as the primary light source.
Watering
The growing medium is generally kept consistently moist but well drained; filtered or distilled water is recommended to reduce the risk of brown leaf margins or tips associated with fluoride in tap water, while overwatering may cause root rot.
Humidity and airflow
Few sources report a preferred humidity of about 60–100 %.
Temperature and dormancy
It is reported for USDA hardiness zones 11a, 11b, 12a, and 12b.
Growing medium and mounting
The growing medium is generally moist and well drained and may be a potting medium containing perlite or vermiculite; the soil texture may be loamy, with an acidic to neutral pH.
Propagation
Goeppertia lietzei is reported to be propagated by division.
Common problems
It may be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects. Overwatering may cause root rot, while frequently wet leaves combined with poor airflow may increase the chance of fungal or bacterial infection. Low humidity or fluoride in tap water may cause brown leaf margins and tips; insufficient water or low humidity may cause curled leaves, and insufficient light may make the leaf color fade. It is reported to be intolerant of frost, and cold drafts and sudden temperature changes should be avoided.
Identification
The main ornamental feature is reported to be the variegated foliage; 'White Fusion' has a compact form, individually varying white, green, and purple leaf patterns, and wavy leaf margins.
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