Calathea insignis

Calathea insignis , which according to current taxonomy is actually Goeppertia insignis , originates from the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro. It grows in the shady undergrowth of rainforests at altitudes of 150–1200 meters. It is one of the larger members of the genus, reaching a height of approximately 80 cm with leaves up to 50 cm long but only 8–12 cm wide. The pattern on the leaves is intended to represent a smaller plant and conceal the leaf's size from phytophagous insects (e.g., butterflies). These insects naturally prefer to lay their eggs on large plants, where there is plenty of food for the caterpillars, rather than on small, thin twigs.

In addition to their beautiful pattern, the elongated leaves are also undulating (wavy) at the edges and have crimson undersides. In my opinion, it is one of the most beautiful representatives of its genus! It is also one of the easier Calatheas to care for and quite trouble-free when grown indoors.