The Calathea plant, scientifically known as Calathea spp., is a popular choice among plant enthusiasts for its striking foliage and unique patterns. Belonging to the Marantaceae family, this tropical plant hails from the rainforests of South America and Africa. Its botanical name is derived from the Greek word kalathos, meaning basket, which aptly describes the shape of its flowers.
It also opens in the daytime and closes at night like the Mantra Leuconeura(Prayer Plant), this process is called nyctinasty. Calathea plants are not toxic to humans or pets when ingested.
Calathea Care
Calathea thrives when specific conditions are met. You need to remember a few things when caring for Calathea plant.
Light Requirements
They thrive in bright, indirect light, making them perfect for indoor spaces with filtered sunlight. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight as it can scorch their leaves and cause damage. To meet their light requirements, place your Calathea in a well-lit room with filtered sunlight or use sheer curtains to diffuse the light.
If you notice your Calathea’s leaves curling or losing their color, it may be a sign that they are not receiving enough light. On the other hand, if the leaves start turning yellow or brown at the edges, this could indicate too much sunlight exposure.
Soil Requirements
Calathea plants thrive best in loamy soil that is rich in organic matter such as peat moss or a mix of perlite and potting soil. Loamy soil, characterized by its balanced combination of sand, silt, and clay, provides the ideal texture for calatheas to grow healthy and vibrant. This type of soil offers excellent moisture retention while also ensuring good drainage.
It also requires soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level to thrive oil, which helps them absorb essential nutrients and minerals efficiently. Adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil can help retain moisture and regulate temperature fluctuations, creating a more stable environment for these sensitive plants to thrive.
Water Requirements
This tropical beauty thrives on consistent moisture in the soil, but be cautious of overwatering as it can lead to root rot. To strike the perfect balance, aim to keep the soil lightly moist at all times without allowing it to become waterlogged.
Overwatering can lead to root rot and other health issues, so it’s crucial to let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. underwatering can cause the leaves to curl and turn brown. However, these plants are sensitive to fluoride and chlorine commonly found in tap water. To ensure optimal growth, it’s recommended to use distilled or filtered water at room temperature for watering Calatheas. Misting the leaves regularly also can help increase humidity levels around the plant.
Temperature and Humidity
The Calathea plant thrives best in temperatures ranging between 65-80°F, making it crucial to maintain the right environment for its optimal growth. It is important to avoid placing the plant near drafty windows or vents, as sudden temperature changes can negatively impact its health
This tropical beauty thrives in a warm and humid environment. Humidity levels between 60-70% can further ensure that your Calathea remains happy and vibrant.
Consider using a humidifier or pebble tray to create a more humid environment. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight as this can lead to sunburned leaves and reduce its overall vitality.
Fertilizer
Choosing the right fertilizer for your Calathea plant is crucial for its health and growth. Opt for a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 3:1:2, which provides essential nutrients without causing nutrient imbalances. Over-fertilizing can lead to burnt roots and leaf tips, so it’s important to follow the recommended dosage on the packaging.
During the growing season, fertilize your Calathea plant once a month to support its growth and vibrant foliage. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant, as it requires less nutrients during this time. Remember to always dilute the fertilizer in water before applying it to prevent root damage and ensure even distribution of nutrients throughout the soil.
Types of Calathea Plant
There are many calathea varieties, the following are the most famous varieties.
Cathalea Orbifolia:Cathalea Orbifolia, also known as the Round-leafed Stromanthe, is a striking houseplant that truly commands attention with its vibrant foliage. The unique round leaves are adorned with intricate patterns of dark green veins on a light green background.
Cathalea Makoyana:Cathalea Makoyana, also known as the peacock plant, boasts vibrant and eye-catching leaves that are truly a sight to behold. The striking foliage of this plant features a mix of stunning colors, including shades of green, purple, and silver.
Calathea Ornate:The Calathea Ornata, also known as the Pinstripe Plant, is a stunning addition to any indoor plant collection. Its vibrant green leaves with pink stripes make it a unique and eye-catching plant that can brighten up any space
Calathea Lancifolia:Calathea Lancifolia, also known as the Rattlesnake plant, boasts striking lance-shaped leaves with dark green stripes that resemble the skin of a snake.
Calathea Rufibarba:Calathea Rufibarba, also known as the Velvet Calathea, is a striking plant characterized by its long, dark green leaves with deep purple undersides.This plant’s velvety texture adds a luxurious touch to any indoor space.
Calathea Roseopicta:Calathea Roseopicta, also known as the Rose-painted Calathea, is a striking tropical plant renowned for its vibrant foliage that resembles the strokes of an artist’s brush. With its deep green leaves showcasing intricate patterns of pink stripes and veins, this plant adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any indoor space.
Propagating Calathea
The most successful method to propagate calathea is through root division.To propagate Calathea through root division, begin by selecting a healthy plant with strong stems and vibrant leaves. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off the soil to expose the roots. Using a clean, sharp knife or gardening shears, divide the root clumps into sections ensuring each division has both roots and several stems or leaves.
Next, plant each divided section into a new pot filled with well-draining soil mix. Ensure that the plant is placed at the same depth as before and water thoroughly to help establish new roots. Keep the newly propagated plants in a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight to encourage growth. Regularly misting the leaves can also promote hydration and prevent transplant shock.
How to grow Calathea from Seeds
To grow Calathea from seeds, start by soaking the seeds in warm water for a few hours to soften the outer shell and improve germination. Next, plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in a pot filled with moist, well-draining soil, barely covering them with a light layer of soil.
Maintain consistent moisture levels by misting the soil regularly and covering the pot with plastic wrap to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a warm, bright location away from direct sunlight to encourage successful germination. Remember that growing plants from seeds requires patience, they would take two to four weeks to germinate.
Potting and Repotting Calathea
Repotting your Calathea plant every few years is essential for its healthy growth and development. The best time to repot your Calathea is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. This allows the plant to recover quickly from transplant shock and establish itself in its new pot.
When repotting your Calathea, choose a pot that is slightly larger than its current one to allow room for growth. Be gentle when removing the plant from its old pot to avoid damaging the delicate roots. Use a well-draining soil mix designed for houseplants to ensure proper moisture retention and prevent root rot.
Common Pets/Diseases
Calathea plants are susceptible to a variety of common pet diseases, one of which is the pesky fungus gnats. These tiny insects thrive in moist soil and can quickly multiply, causing damage to the plant’s roots and overall health. Additionally, aphids are another common issue that calathea owners face. These small, sap-sucking insects can quickly infest a plant, leading to yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Another common pest that plagues calathea plants is spider mites. These microscopic arachnids feed on the plant’s sap, resulting in stippled leaves and webbing on the foliage. It is important to regularly inspect your calathea for signs of spider mites and take prompt action to prevent their spread.