Calathea
| Name: Calathea | Family: Marantaceae | Type Plant: Perennial, tropical foliage plant |
| Flowering time: Rare indoors, typically spring/summer in the wild | Best time to buy: Winter / spring | Max Height: 30-90 cm |
| Sun/Shadow: Prefers indirect, bright light; avoid direct sunlight | Wintergreen: Not wintergreen; may lose leaves in winter | Humidity: Needs high humidity (50-60%+), thrives in moisture-rich environments |
Origin
Calatheas are native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly Brazil. They thrive in the warm, humid conditions of the rainforest under the canopy of larger trees.
Characteristics
Calatheas are real eye-catchers, known for their bold, intricate leaves with striking patterns in vibrant shades of green, purple, white and pink. Their unique beauty doesn’t stop there – many species have stunning purple or red undersides, adding an extra layer of charm. But what really sets them apart is their captivating ‘prayer plant’ movement, where their leaves fold up at night and reopen in the morning, mimicking a prayerful gesture. With popular varieties such as the silver striped Calathea orbifolia, the stunning Calathea lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant) and the delicate Calathea makoyana (Peacock Plant), these plants are a must for any plant lover.
Care
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves.
Humidity: These plants love high humidity (above 50%), making them ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. Use a pebble tray or humidifier to maintain moisture.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Use distilled or rainwater, as they are sensitive to chemicals in tap water.
Temperature: They thrive in temperatures between 65–80°F (18–27°C) and are intolerant of cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix with organic material. Adding peat moss or coco coir helps retain moisture.
Fertilizer: During the growing season (spring and summer), feed every 4–6 weeks with a diluted, balanced fertilizer.
Blooming time
Calathea plants are primarily appreciated for their striking foliage, but they do produce small, delicate flowers. However, flowering is more common in their natural tropical habitat than indoors.
- Blooming Season: Calatheas typically bloom in late spring to early summer.
- Flowers: The flowers are usually small and white, yellow, or purple, often growing at the base of the plant or on small spikes.
- Indoor Blooming: While it’s rare, with optimal conditions including high humidity and proper light, Calatheas may bloom indoors.
Despite their inconspicuous flowers, Calatheas remain popular for their vibrant and decorative leaves.
