Calathea spp.

Calathea spp.

Calathea

◆

Taxonomy

Description

Calathea species are beloved tropical houseplants known for their striking, patterned leaves that gently fold at night. They thrive with soft light, steady moisture, and high humidity—rewarding good care with vibrant color and living-room jungle vibes.

Common Names

CalatheaPrayer Plant (Calathea)Peacock PlantRattlesnake PlantZebra PlantPinstripe Plant

Context

nativeRegion

Tropical understories of Central and South America, especially Brazil.

usdaZones

11–12 (commonly grown indoors elsewhere)

companionPlants

Maranta leuconeura, Ctenanthe setosa, Stromanthe sanguinea ‘Triostar’, Fittonia albivenis, Ferns (e.g., Nephrolepis), Philodendron micans, Pilea involucrata

culturalUses

Primarily ornamental for indoor foliage displays; in parts of the Neotropics, large leaves have been used traditionally for wrapping food and in craft weaving.

Care

Care Requirements

LightBright, indirect light; protect from harsh direct sun which can fade or scorch leaves.

WateringKeep evenly moist but never soggy. Let the top 1–2 cm (about 1/2–3/4 in) dry between waterings. Use filtered, rain, or distilled water to avoid leaf browning from salts/chlorine.

SoilRich, airy, well-draining mix: fine bark + coco coir/peat-free base + perlite. Slightly acidic to neutral (pH ~6.0–6.8).

FertilizerDilute, balanced liquid feed at 1/4–1/2 strength every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; hold or reduce in fall–winter.

HumidityHigh humidity (50–70%+, ideally 60–80%). Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or group plants; avoid strong drafts.

TemperatureWarm and stable: 18–27°C (65–80°F). Avoid temps below 15°C (59°F) and sudden temperature swings.

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitEvergreen, clumping perennial with broad, patterned leaves; nyctinastic (leaves raise/lower with day–night).

Mature SizeTypically 30–90 cm tall and wide (12–36 in), depending on species/cultivar.

Growth RateModerate under optimal warmth and humidity.

BloomingSmall, often inconspicuous flower spikes; indoor blooms are occasional to rare.

DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cooler, darker months.

Propagation

MethodsDivision of clumps/rhizomes during repotting, Tissue culture (commercial), Seed (rare)

DifficultyModerate—division is straightforward but plants can be humidity-sensitive after splitting.

Best SeasonSpring to early summer when growth is active.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningRegularly remove yellowed or crisp leaves and spent blooms. Trim brown edges conservatively and improve humidity/watering to prevent recurrence.

RepottingEvery 1–2 years in spring when rootbound or mix has compacted; step up 2–5 cm (1–2 in) in pot diameter.

Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, thrips, mealybugs; treat early. Overwatering can cause root rot; low humidity and hard water cause leaf edge browning.

ToxicityNon-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans (pet-safe).

Recent Public Plants

No public plants yet.