The Calathea plant is truly a showstopper, a living piece of art for your home. With its incredibly vibrant and often whimsical leaf patterns, it captivates not only houseplant enthusiasts but anyone looking to infuse a touch of the tropics into their living space. Hailing from the rainforests of Central and South America, Calatheas belong to the Marantaceae family, which also includes other “prayer plants.” You might also see them sold under the genus name Goeppertia, so don’t be surprised if you come across that name at the plant shop!
And here’s a fun fact: Calatheas are often mistaken for Marantas, and both are lovingly called “prayer plants” because of their unique habit of folding their leaves upwards at night, as if in prayer.
Discovering Calathea Varieties
In their natural habitat, there are over 50 species of Calathea, and even more decorative cultivars have been developed for us to enjoy! All of them absolutely adore high humidity and will mesmerize you with their diverse foliage:
- Calathea lancifolia (“Rattlesnake Plant”): Features striking, wavy, narrow leaves adorned with patterns of spots and stripes that truly resemble snake skin.
- Calathea orbifolia: Boasts large, rounded leaves with elegant, thin white-green stripes. This one is incredibly effective at adding a touch of sophisticated drama!
- Calathea makoyana (“Peacock Plant”): A smaller, yet luxurious plant with leaves featuring patterns of spots and stripes that mimic a peacock’s feathers.
- Calathea crocata: One of the rare Calatheas that can bloom indoors, producing stunning, bright orange flowers.
- Calathea warscewiczii: A tall variety with velvety leaves, capable of growing up to a meter (over 3 feet) in height.
Creating the Perfect Home for Your Calathea
Calatheas can be a bit particular, but give them what they need, and they’ll thrive and reward you with their lush beauty.
Light
Calatheas are not fans of direct sunlight. In their native environment, they grow beneath the canopy of larger trees, so they prefer filtered or indirect light, or even a bit of partial shade. If your Calathea has very bright leaves or prominent white stripes, it might appreciate a touch more light. However, direct sun can scorch their delicate leaves or cause those beautiful patterns to fade.
Watering
These plants absolutely love moisture, but they despise sitting in soggy soil. The ideal approach is to water when the top 1-2 cm (about ½ – 1 inch) of the soil feels dry to the touch. Never let the soil completely dry out. It’s best to use distilled, rainwater, or filtered water that has sat out for 24 hours, as Calatheas are quite sensitive to chlorine and fluoride often found in tap water. If you notice the leaves drying out or wilting, it’s a clear sign your plant needs a drink!
Soil
Choose a loose, well-draining potting mix that retains moisture, ideally one with a good amount of peat or coco coir. Your Calathea needs a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot. Many people find it convenient to keep their Calathea in a plastic nursery pot and place it inside a decorative cachepot.
Temperature & Humidity
Maintain a comfortable room temperature between 18–26°C (65–80°F). Calatheas dislike drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. Pay special attention to humidity – the higher, the better! Aim for 60-70% humidity if possible. How can you boost the humidity?
- Humidifier: An ideal solution for increasing humidity throughout the entire room.
- Misting: Lightly mist the leaves with a fine spray, but only in the morning to allow the leaves to dry by evening.
- Grouping Plants: Placing several plants together helps create a microclimate with higher local humidity.
- Pebble Tray: Place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and a little water, ensuring the pot itself isn’t sitting directly in the water.
- Mini Greenhouses or Domes: For an extra humidity boost, especially for smaller plants. Just remember to open them occasionally so the plant can “breathe.”
Feeding
During their active growing season, from March to September, feed your Calathea once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer designed for foliage plants. There’s no need to fertilize during the winter months when growth slows down.
Propagation
The easiest and most successful way to propagate a Calathea is by dividing the rhizome during repotting. This is typically done in the spring or summer. It’s crucial to only separate sections that already have their own root system. Young plant divisions will need extra high humidity to help them establish new roots.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
- Dry or Curled Leaves: Often a sign of insufficient watering or, more commonly, low humidity.
- Yellow Leaves: Lower leaves turning yellow can indicate overwatering, while yellowing on upper leaves might mean too much bright light.
- Pests (Spider Mites or Fungus Gnats): Regularly wipe down the leaves to keep them clean. Neem oil can be a good preventative. If you spot an infestation, treat the leaves with a gentle soapy water solution and wipe them clean.
Safe for Kids and Pets!
Good news for families: Calatheas are non-toxic plants, making them a safe choice for homes with curious little ones or furry friends!
While the Calathea certainly brings that coveted tropical vibe, it can be a bit sensitive to its environment. However, if you give it a little warmth and attention, it will absolutely reward you with its magnificent foliage and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere in your home. Are you ready to add a “prayer plant” to your indoor jungle?