Calathea is a tropical plant genus sought after for its striking foliage. These plants can be a little tricky to look after, but if you keep them away from direct sunlight and provide them with a humid environment they will make an excellent addition to your plant family.
There are more than 300 species of Calathea, many of which have been cultivated into popular houseplants . The Calathea genus is a part of the Marantaceae family. These plants are native to South and Central America, Africa, and the West Indies.
Nearly all Calathea have very intricate patterns on their leaves and this is what makes them stand out from other tropical plants. Often Calathea are referred to as prayer plants. This is because of a daily process called nyctinasty. They lower and open their leaves at dawn and raise and close them at dusk. The vertically closed leaves look a bit like hands clasped in prayer, hence the name “prayer plants”. The purpose of nyctinasty is unknown, but it is another interesting aspect of these plants.
Calathea plants add visual beauty to an office or any room of the home. They are not poisonous, which means they are cat, dog and people friendly. They don’t need much light, and their medium size and compact bushy shape bring the jungle vibe to any room.
- Position - Place away from direct sunlight and draughts, preferably in a humid room; otherwise, mist the leaves regularly or place on a tray of pebbles and water.
- Potting - Transfer to the next pot size up when the roots start to appear through the bottom of the pot or when the stems reach the extremity of the pot.
- Care - Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser during the summer and water moderately to keep the soil moist. Water more sparingly during winter.
- Propagation - Is best done by division in early spring before the plant goes on a growth spurt. Maranta scan be propagated from stem cuttings placed in water until they root.
Calathea are one of our favourite house plants and we especially love the Warscewiczil and Rufibarba varieties.
