Calathea Varieties

Calathea plants are native to Africa, West Indies, Central and South America. These plants are treasured for their large, oval, distinctly patterned and vibrant colored leaves.

A Calathea requires bright indirect light, but no direct sun. Direct sun burns the leaves and causes their vibrant colors to fade.

The leaves are easily damaged by the quality of the water you use. Hard water, soft water, water with a high chemical content (fluoride, chlorine, or salt), or water of poor quality causes the leaves to burn. Water with distilled water, rain water or with tap water that has sat out overnight before using it. They like moist soil at all times, but not soggy. Never allow the plant to sit in water and the top 2-3” should dry out before watering.

Feed monthly in the spring, Summer and Fall with a basic houseplant food at ½ the recommended strength. DO  NOT fertilize if it’s not actively growing. If new leaves emerge light in color, they might lack in iron.

Calathea prefer temperatures between 65-80 degrees, and DO NOT like cold drafts or temperatures below 55-60 degrees. The leaves will curl if the temperatures are too warm.

High humidity is a must. If the air is too dry, the leaves will develop brown edges.

Increase the humidity by placing the plant on a tray of pebbles. Be sure the container is on the pebbles and not in the water.

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