Caring for your Calathea
Calathea plants are one of our favourite houseplants. They have amazing striking foliage and unique patterns. I think I could fill my house with Calathea varieties and never get bored.
Although incredibly beautiful, they can be a bit...let's say "particular" about it's habitat.
If you're having problems getting it to thrive, then don't worry. Most owners run into trouble if they don't follow the Calathea care tips.
In this blog post, we'll discuss some common problems, answer frequently asked questions, and provide care tips to help your calathea thrive.
About the Calathea
These plants are usually found in the humid tropical forests of Brazil.
They are also from the Marantaceae family of plants - or the prayer plant family. Plants in this family have something called "nyctinasty" where the leaves fold up at night - a bit like praying.
Their latin name is Goeppertia followed by the species name, and there are a LOT of species.
Types of Calathea
One of the reasons I love Calatheas is that there are so many beautiful calathea varieties to choose from.
Calathea orbifolia
This Calathea has gorgeous large, round leaves with lots of white stripes. This one is actually native to Bolivia.
Calathea makoyana
Known as the Peacock Plant, this calathea has long, narrow leaves with dark green and silver stripes.
Calathea lancifolia
This Calathea has wider leaves than the Makoyana features long, lance-shaped leaves (hence the name) and has dark green paint stripes on a bright green leaf. Underneath the leaf, its a deep burgundy red and feels like velvet. This is an absolutely stunning plant from whatever angle you look at it.
Calathea rufibarba (furry feather calathea)
Lovely dark dreen leaves that look like feathers with no markings but maroon underside.
Calathea roseopicta
The Pink Stripe Plant has beautiful pink stripes on its leaves and a pink underside. Absolutely stunning.
Calathea warscewiczii (Jungle Velvet)
Also known as the Velvet Plant, this calathea has velvety, dark and light green leaves with dark painterly stripes. This is a Costa Rican native.
Calathea Leopardina
These have more feathery type stripes than the lancifolia, but is very very pretty. You get more vibrant green on these leaves contrasting with those dark stripes.
Calathea Network
This is quite a new plant and is very different. It has a mosaic pattern with tiny yellow windows all over the leaves. These ones are much tougher than your normal calatheas.
Calathea crocata 'Tassmania'
Dark green leaves with purple undersides and a beautiful orange star like flowers that twinkle above the dark leaves.
Caring for your Calathea
As a rainforest dweller you know it's going to like being misted.
If you have it in some normal houseplant compost, I would look at adding in some extra drainage material like perlite, pumice or leca. This will help improve drainage and stop your Calathea getting waterlogged.
It likes consistently moist soil, so check every few days and water it thoroughly. You want all the soil to be wet. But also make sure that the excess water drains away, so roots aren't left sat in water. Their roots are very sensitive and don't like to be under stress. If they're sat in water, they're going to rot.
It also isn't a big fan of fluoride in our tap water either. So try and use rain water when you can.
It will need watering when the top two inches feel dry. The best measure of this is to use your finger.
Light-wise. Aim for light, but indirect light. That means the sun is not shining directly on it at any time.
Help! My Calathea is Dying
If your Calathea is looking sickly, don't panic. Here are some common reasons why your plant might be struggling:
- Incorrect lighting: Calatheas prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves.
- Low humidity: These plants thrive in humid environments. Mist your calathea regularly or use a humidifier.
- Overwatering or underwatering: Ensure the soil is consistently moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch to dry out slightly before watering.
- Pests: Keep an eye out for common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Treat them promptly with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Can Calathea Grow in Water?
Yes, some Calathea varieties can be grown in water. However, it's important to use fresh water regularly and ensure the roots are healthy.
Popular varieties that can be grown hydroponically include Calathea makoyana (Rattlesnake Plant) and Calathea orbifolia.
Are Calathea Toxic to Pets?
Calathea plants are generally considered safe for cats and dogs.
I hope we've answered all your Calathea questions. We are big fans here at the Green East, and you can always find them in our plant installations, interior designs and of course in the shop at Banana Block at Portview Trade Centre in Belfast.