CTENANTHE GOLDEN MOSAIC

Plant name: Ctenanthe Golden Mosaic

Scientific name: Ctenanthe lubbersiana ‘Golden Mosaic’

Plant description:
Ctenanthe Golden Mosaic is a tropical foliage plant valued for its irregular yellow variegation and upright, clumping growth habit. This ornamental species forms dense clusters of elongated leaves that create a layered, architectural look in containers and interior plantings. Its patterned foliage provides strong visual contrast and works well in modern and tropical-inspired spaces.

Flower description:
Flowering is uncommon in indoor cultivation. When present, blooms are small and pale, emerging discreetly among the foliage. The plant is primarily grown for its variegated leaves rather than floral display.

Leaf description:
Leaves are elongated and slightly lance-shaped with a medium green base splashed with irregular golden-yellow markings. The variegation appears in streaks and patches, giving each leaf a unique pattern. The undersides are typically lighter green, and the overall texture is smooth with a matte finish.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen perennial in suitable climates and when grown indoors.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 10–11 outdoors; commonly grown as a houseplant in all regions.

Mature height and width:
Typically reaches 2–3 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide, forming a full, upright clump over time.

Landscape uses:
Suitable for interior containers, shaded patios, tropical borders, and mixed foliage arrangements. Its upright habit makes it effective as a floor plant or accent specimen in living spaces and offices. It pairs well with deep green or broad-leaf plants that highlight its golden variegation.

Native range:
Native to Brazil and other tropical regions of South America.

Sun exposure:
Prefers bright, indirect light. Strong direct sun may scorch leaves and fade variegation, while low light can reduce color contrast and slow growth. Consistent filtered light supports healthy foliage and vibrant markings.

Water requirements:
Requires evenly moist, well-drained soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between watering, but avoid extended dry periods. Consistent humidity supports leaf health and prevents browning along the edges.

Pests and problems:
May be susceptible to spider mites in dry indoor air. Leaf edge browning can result from low humidity, inconsistent watering, or mineral buildup from tap water. Maintaining steady moisture and moderate humidity reduces stress-related issues.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Performs best in warm indoor conditions with stable temperatures. Sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F, which can cause leaf damage and slowed growth.

Growing tips:
Plant in a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Maintain moderate humidity to preserve leaf quality and prevent tip burn. Rotate containers periodically to ensure even growth and balanced light exposure. Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and enhance the visibility of the golden variegation. Consistent watering and stable indoor conditions promote dense, healthy foliage.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

, Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.