Calathea
Calathea spp.

Calathea Plant

Calatheas, herbs with moderate growth, prefer well-drained soil and bright indirect light. With high moisture needs, Calatheas are popular as indoor ornamental plants, known for their decorative foliage.


person holding green plant in white pot
Picture illustrating Calathea plant

Habit

Herb

Height

0.6-1.2 m

Growth

Moderate 

Soil

Humus-rich, well-drained

Shade

Bright-Indirect light 

Moisture

Low

Edible

No

Medicinal

No 

Origin

South America

Climatic Condition

Tropical, Subtropical

Temperature (°)

18-30°C

Humidity (%)

60-80%

Potting media

Peat-based or bark mix

Fertilizers

Balanced NPK

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist, don’t let it dry out completely

Plant Weight 

300-500 grams

Flowering Time

Year-round (indoor)

Soil Ph level

5.5 - 6.5

Water Ph level

6.0-7.0

Soil EC

Medium

Yield Per Plant 

1-2 plants per pot

NPK ratio 

10:10:10

life Span

2-3 years

Health Benefits

Known for purifying the air and enhancing home aesthetics

Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?

50% peat moss, 30% pine bark, 20% perlite


Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers

Fertilize every 4 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

Common Diseases and Remedies

calathea root rot , calathea powdery mildew 

thinning of canopy , white powdery appearance on leaves 

Pruning , spray neem oil or baking soda 

Spray methyl-bromide , sulphur dust 

                  HEALTH BENEFITS

Medicinal Properties

1. Anti-inflammatory: Calathea plants contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce swelling and pain.

2. Antimicrobial: The plants have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity, which can help prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.

3. Antioxidant: Calathea plants contain antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Air Purification

1. Removes toxins: Calathea plants are known to remove toxins and pollutants from the air, improving indoor air quality.

2. Reduces stress: By purifying the air and promoting a sense of well-being, Calathea plants can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Other Benefits

1. Improved sleep: The calming presence of Calathea plants can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

2. Boosts mood: The vibrant colors and beautiful foliage of Calathea plants can help boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

3. Skin and hair benefits: The antioxidants and other compounds present in Calathea plants may have benefits for the skin and hair, such as reducing inflammation and promoting healthy growth.

What Is An Calathea Tree?

About Calathea Calathea, the furry-feathered or velvet calathea, is a species of flowering plant in the family Marantaceae, native to the state of Bahia in northeastern Brazil. This plant's common name comes from the fuzzy, fur-like underside of its leaves, which is unusual for this genus.


What Are The Different Types Of Calathea Plants?


Calathea currently includes approximately 60 species. Many species native to tropical America are popular potted plants because of their decorative foliage, and some species have colourful inflorescences and long blue-green leaves.

Calathea rufibarba ‘Elgergrass’: This variety has striking, contrasting green-purple foliage and reaches approximately 45 cm in height.


How to Care Calathea Plant ? 

 

1. Location 

Calathea , also known as fur-feather or velvet calathea, belongs to the arrowroot family, also known as the Marantaceae family. Originally native to the rainforests of Central and South America, it is often kept as an ornamental plant.

2. Sunshine 

As most colourful plants, Calathea requires a large amount of diffused light. Direct sunlight will cause the leaves to fade and lose their pattern. It can tolerate some shade, but the more indirect light it receives, the finer its leaves will become.

3. Soil 

Soil that retains moisture and has good drainage is ideal for growing Calathea.  However, care must be taken to ensure that the soil is not too wet. If the plant is healthy and growing, it should be repotted every two years.

4. Hydration 

Drooping Leaves – Calathea prefers semi-moist soil without completely drying out between waterings. When the soil dries out, Mike's leaves begin to droop, which is a sign that he needs a drink. When the first few inches of soil feel completely dry.

green leaves on white surface

5. Nourishment 

Fertilizer and Soil During the growing season, we recommend applying a half-strength nitrogen-rich foliar fertilizer once or twice a month. Avoid excessive fertilizer as this can harm the plant. Moisture-retaining, well-drained soil is ideal for growing Calathea. 

6. Issues

Seed and seedling problems , Seedlings do not emerge from the soil. Seedlings are edible. The roots are tunnel-shaped, Seeds rot or seedlings appear and quickly fall over with black, water-soaked stems, Seedlings are eaten or cut close to the ground, Young shoots do not grow or die. Blue-black spots appear on leaves and stems.

What are the Benefits of Calathea Plant ? 

Calathea Plant Benefits: Actively filters common indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene, helping to improve the air quality in your home or office. This can improve your respiratory health and overall health.

green plant on brown clay pot

FAQs About Growing Calathea 


1. Is Calathea difficult to care for ?

Calathea should always be kept in moist soil, but under no circumstances should the plant be left in water or in very wet soil. Water slowly and frequently.

2. What is the Calathea plant good for ?

As a houseplant, Calathea roseopicta will reward your care and attention by improving the quality of the air you breathe (capturing dust and purifying toxins while delivering newly photosynthesized oxygen). In addition, calathea care can evoke calmness and alertness.

3. Does Calathea purify the air ?

Calathea is known for the unique movement of its patterned leaves, giving it an exotic feel and brightening up any room. The beautiful and uniquely coloured calathea plant purifies the air around it by filtering out a variety of toxic compounds.

4. Is Calathea lucky?

Even better, the Calateas plant is known for purifying the air and promoting improved indoor climate. Jade: In Feng Shui, this plant is also called the money tree. Because the round leaves symbolize good luck (which can come in the form of money or health).

Caladium
Caladium spp.