Care Sheet - Calathea

Calathea
        

 Similar care for Stromanthe and Ctenanthe

Calathea and some similar-growing plants (Stromanthe and Ctenanthe) are wonderfully lush and often colorful houseplants. Look out for their leaves which shift during day and night. New leaves will emerge somewhat fluted and unfurl to show their final form.

Light: Calatheas prefer bright but not direct sunlight.  Too much sun can cause the thin leaves to burn. A north-facing windowsill can be ideal, but these plants also do well slightly set back from a sunnier window.

Water: This plant demands to be moist at all times, but not "wet" or sitting in water. This means regularly giving it small amounts of water as soon as the surface starts to dry up. The soil should usually feel like a wrung-out sponge. During winter, the plant will usually require less frequent watering as the weather becomes cooler and darker but still be mindful to avoid any kind of drought.

Environment: Calatheas prefer a humid environment and leaves may brown around the edges if the air is too dry. Indoors, place them near a humidifier, group them with other humidity-loving plants, and/or set them on a pebble tray filled with water.

Toxicity: Reported to be non-toxic to cats and dogs but is not considered edible.

Of Note:

If possible, water your calathea with distilled water or rain water, or allow your tap water to sit out overnight before using it. Leaf tips may burn as they can be sensitive to water quality.
*When planting in a pot without a drainage hole, avoid over watering by estimating 25% of the container’s overall volume, with appropriate drainage materials incorporated when planting.