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How To Care for a Calathea

Learn how to care for most varieties of calathea plants,
including Calathea Rattlesnake, Pinstripe Calathea,
Peacock Plant (Calathea Makoyana), and other popular
prayer plants.
 Words by The Sill

Plants 101
Next Article
Calathea is a genus of neotropical rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plants that are
known for the unique leaf movements of patterned foliage (more on that below).
Calatheas are also considered pet-friendly plants, making them great plant picks for
anyone that shares a space with curious pets.

In the tropics (mostly Brazil), colorful calathea leaves are used for handicraft and food
wrapping. Because of the diversity of the leaf shapes, baskets are weaved with the
lanceolate leaves, and food is wrapped with the wider leaves. These colorful leaf
markings also make them popular houseplants, and their popularity has been growing.
The Calathea Makoyana or Peacock Plant, Calathea Medallion (Calathea veitchiana
‘Medallion’), Rattlesnake Calathea (Calathea lancifolia), Pinstripe Calathea (Calathea
ornata), and Calathea Dottie (Calathea roseopicta 'Dottie') are some of the most popular
species.
Calatheas are part of the ‘prayer plant’ family, Marantaceae. The prayer plant nickname
stems from the daily movements of the plants leaves, known as nyctinasty. Various
plants in this family move their leaves up at nighttime and lower them in the daytime in
accordance to a circadian rhythm. They move their leaves by changing the water
pressure in their pulvini, the swollen nodes at the base of the leaf, along the leaf stalk
(petiole). It is believed that these movements are meant to follow the sun’s movement
in the sky in order to maximize light absorption.

Pet-Friendly
Calathea Vittata
$23–$65
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How much sunlight does a calathea need?

Calatheas thrive in medium to bright indirect light, but can tolerate low indirect light.

How often should you water a calathea?

Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry out half way down between waterings.
Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light.

Do calatheas need humidity?

Calatheas prefer higher humidity if possible. Consider incorporating a fine-mist mister
or humidifier to boost humidity level indoors.

What temperature do calatheas like?

Like most popular houseplants, calatheas prefer temperatures in the 65°F-85°F range
(18°C-30°C), similar to their tropical native habitat. It’s best not to let the temperature go
below 60°F (15°C) to avoid cold damage.

What’s the best soil for calatheas?

Calatheas prefer a well-draining potting soil or mix. Look for ingredients like compost,
pine bark, coco coir, worm castings, and perlite. These provide nutrients and help
maintain moisture (but not too much).
Are calatheas easy to care for?
Calatheas are generally easy-going plants but there are some common problems you
can look out for:

SYMPTOM: Wilting, curling leaves, dry potting mix

CAUSE: Underwatered, or low humidity levels

SYMPTOM: Yellowing leaves, black base, wet potting mix

CAUSE: Overwatered

SYMPTOM: Leaf spots

CAUSE: Fungal infection or mineral build up from tap water—use distilled water and
water directly into surrounding potting soil

SYMPTOM: Plant pests

CAUSE: Houseplant pests like mealybugs, fungus gnats, and spider mites can happen,
treat them as soon as they appear with weekly sprays of a natural pesticide like neem
oil and regular wipe-downs of the plant

Are calatheas safe for pets?

Calatheas are pet-friendly! They are considered non-toxic, making them safe to keep
around cats and dogs. However, the best practice is to keep houseplants out of reach of
small children and curious pets just in case.

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Calathea Rattlesnake
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