Calathea crocata is a tropical foliage plant with lush leaves that densely cluster, each leaf dark green above and deep purple beneath. It is very rewarding with its bright orange flowers that rise on slender stalks and stand out strongly against the darker foliage. These flame-shaped bracts persist for several weeks and have led to the common name "Eternal Flame." Native to the tropical forests of Bahia in Brazil, it grows in shaded, humid conditions with steady warmth. Flowering occurs in the warmer months, with successive blooms extending the display for several weeks.
Care Tips
Light: Best in soft, indirect light; direct sun damages the leaves.
Water: Keep the potting mix evenly moist, using low-mineral water where possible.
Media: A rich, free-draining organic mix is suitable.
Fertiliser: Apply a diluted balanced fertiliser every 4-6 weeks during active growth.
Temperature: Consistent warmth of 18-26 °C is required, with protection from cold drafts.
Repotting: Repot every couple of years when the clump becomes tight in the container.
Shipping and Biosecurity Information
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Dispatch:
Orders are processed in scheduled weekly runs.
VIC, QLD, NSW, SA & ACT: Sunday 11:59 pm cut-off. Orders are generally prepared from Monday and dispatched by Thursday. Allow up to 9 working days for processing.
WA, TAS & NT: Thursday 11:59 pm cut-off for Friday treatment. Orders are generally prepared from Monday and dispatched by Thursday. Allow up to 10 working days for treatment, certification and processing.
Dispatch dates are not guaranteed and may be affected by biosecurity requirements, weather, public holidays, order volumes and plant preparation.
Express Shipping speeds up transit after dispatch only. It does not speed up processing, treatment or certification.
Biosecurity Fees:
WA & TAS: $20 per order
NT: $10 per order
Fees are included at checkout and help cover mandatory plant treatment and health certification.
Important:
Where certification is required, a physical address must be supplied for traceability. Delivery to a PO Box is still allowed.
Collectors Online operates independently from Collectors Corner.
