Calathea

Scientific name: Calathea
Common Names: Calathea, Prayer Plants
Plant Type: Foliage plants
Genus: Calathea spp.
Family: Marantaceae family

Calathea plants are commonly known as "Calathea" or "Prayer Plants." The name "Prayer Plant" is often used to refer to Calathea plants because of their unique leaf movement. During the day, the leaves of many Calathea species and hybrids are horizontal or slightly drooping, but at night, they fold up vertically, resembling hands and appear as in prayer, hence the name "Prayer Plant." This leaf movement is a fascinating characteristic of Calathea plants and adds to their appeal as indoor ornamental plants.

Calathea plants are native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. They are a diverse group of tropical foliage plants and known for their ornamental leaves with unique patterns, colors, and shapes, making them popular choices for indoor plant enthusiasts. Calathea plants are popular as houseplants due to their ornamental value and relatively low maintenance requirements. They thrive in indoor environments with indirect light and high humidity. Calatheas are often chosen for their ability to purify the air and create a lush and tropical atmosphere in homes and offices.

Calathea Description

Calathea is a genus of tropical flowering plants in the Marantaceae family. Calathea plants have large, broad leaves that come in various shapes, including oval, lanceolate, and rounded. The leaves often feature intricate patterns, markings, and colors, making them visually striking. The patterns can include stripes, spots, veins, and combinations of different shades of green, burgundy, purple, pink, cream, and silver. The underside of the leaves is typically a contrasting color. The leaves can be flat or slightly folded along the midrib. The leaf texture is typically smooth and glossy.

Calatheas typically have an upright growth habit, with leaves growing from a central stem or rhizome. The leaves are held on long petioles, allowing them to arch gracefully. The size of Calathea plants can vary depending on the species and variety. They can range from compact plants with smaller leaves to larger specimens with leaves reaching several inches in length.

While Calatheas are primarily grown for their foliage, they can produce small, inconspicuous flowers. The flowers are usually held on long, slender spikes that rise above the foliage. The flowers themselves are often small and less showy compared to the striking leaves.

Air Purifying: Like many houseplants, Calatheas can contribute to improving indoor air quality by reducing certain airborne pollutants. Their leaves have the ability to absorb and metabolize some harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in the air, such as formaldehyde and benzene, which can be emitted by common household items like furniture, carpets, and cleaning products.

Through photosynthesis, Calathea plants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen, helping to increase oxygen levels in the surrounding air.

Calathea plants thrive in humid environments and release moisture through transpiration. This can help increase the humidity levels in a room, which can improve respiratory comfort and reduce the negative effects of dry indoor air.

While Calatheas can provide some air-purifying benefits, it's important to note that their impact may be relatively modest compared to dedicated air purifiers or a combination of various indoor plants known for their air-cleansing properties. To maximize their potential air-purifying benefits effectively, it is generally recommended to have a combination of plants, proper ventilation, and other strategies for reducing indoor pollutants and maintain a healthy and well-ventilated living environment.

Light: Calathea plants prefer bright, indirect light. They do not tolerate direct sunlight, as it can scorch their leaves. Place them in a location where they receive bright, filtered light throughout the day. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or areas with intense, direct light.

Calatheas appreciate filtered light, such as the light that passes through a sheer curtain or a window with a light shade or blinds. This helps to diffuse the light and prevent it from being too intense. Placing your Calathea near a north or east-facing window is often ideal. These windows tend to provide bright, indirect light without the intensity of direct sunlight.

While Calatheas prefer bright light, they should be kept away from dark corners or areas with low light levels. Insufficient light can cause the plant to grow weak, and the vibrant foliage may lose its color and pattern. If you place your Calatheas in a low light area, make sure to rotate it regularly to expose all sides to light and provide supplementary artificial lighting if needed.

Calathea plants exhibit a unique leaf movement pattern, with leaves typically opening up during the day and closing or folding up at night. Adequate exposure to light during the day helps in maintaining healthy leaf movements.

Pay attention to the color of the leaves as an indicator of light levels. If the leaves become pale or develop brown, crispy edges, it may be a sign that the plant is receiving too much direct light or insufficient light. It's important to strike a balance with light conditions for your Calatheas. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf burn, while insufficient light can result in leggy growth and reduced vibrant leaf colors. Observing the plant's response and adjusting its placement accordingly can help provide the right amount of light for optimal growth and foliage health.

Water: Proper watering is crucial for the health and well-being of Calatheas. Calathea plants prefer consistently moist soil, but they are sensitive to overwatering. Avoid letting the plant sit in soggy or waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Before watering, check the moisture level of the soil by inserting your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, it's time to water. If it still feels slightly moist, you can wait a bit longer before watering. The frequency of watering depends on various factors, including the size of the pot, the environmental conditions, the plant's growth stage and the specific needs of your Calatheas. As a general guideline, water your Calathea when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil feels dry. This typically translates to watering every 1-2 weeks, but it's essential to monitor the soil moisture rather than adhering strictly to a schedule.

Calatheas prefer room temperature water (around 65-75°F or 18-24°C). Avoid using water that is too cold or too hot, as extreme temperatures can shock the roots. When watering your Calathea, thoroughly saturate the soil until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root ball receives moisture. Discard any excess water that collects in the saucer or tray to prevent the plant from sitting in standing water.

Calathea plants appreciate higher humidity levels. If the air in your home is dry, consider increasing humidity around the plant by using a humidifier, placing a tray of water near the plant (without allowing the pot to sit in water), or misting the leaves regularly with water. This helps mimic the tropical conditions that Calathea plants prefer.

Calathea's water requirements may change slightly depending on the season. During the growing season (spring and summer), when the plant is actively growing, it may require more frequent watering. In the dormant period (fall and winter), the plant's water needs may decrease, so you should adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Observing your Calatheas and adjust your watering routine based on its specific needs. It's better to underwater than to overwater, as Calatheas are more tolerant of slight dryness than excessive moisture. Monitoring the moisture level of the soil and the overall health of the plant will guide you in providing the appropriate amount of water.

Temperature: Calatheas prefer warm and stable temperatures, similar to their native tropical environments. They prefer temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C). They are tropical plants and do best in a warm and consistent environment. They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures as long as they are not exposed to cold drafts or prolonged periods of cold.

Calatheas are sensitive to temperature extremes, such as very high or very low temperatures. Avoid exposing them to temperatures below 55°F (13°C) or above 85°F (29°C). Exposure to temperatures outside their preferred range can lead to stress, leaf discoloration, and growth issues. Avoid placing your Calathea near sources of direct heat, such as radiators or heating vents, as this can cause the air around the plant to become too dry. Similarly, keep your Calathea away from cold drafts, such as those caused by open windows or doors during the winter months.

Calatheas prefer a stable and consistent temperature. Ideally, keep your Calathea in a room where the temperature remains relatively stable throughout the day and night. Fluctuations in temperature, especially sudden drops or drafts, can negatively impact their health. During the warmer months, Calathea plants can tolerate slightly higher temperatures as long as they are not exposed to direct sunlight or excessive heat. During winter, it's important to protect them from cold drafts and maintain a minimum temperature of around 60°F (15°C).

Calatheas also appreciate higher humidity levels, which are commonly found in their native tropical habitats. If the air in your home is dry, consider increasing humidity around the plant by using a humidifier, placing a tray of water near the plant, or grouping plants together to create a microclimate of increased humidity.

Maintaining a suitable temperature range, avoiding extremes, and providing adequate humidity will help ensure the health and vitality of your Calathea plant. Monitoring the temperature conditions and making adjustments as necessary will help create an optimal environment for your plant's growth, health, and overall well-being.

Soil: Picking the right soil for your Calathea is essential for its overall health and growth. Calathea prefer well-draining soil that retains moisture while allowing excess water to flow out easily.

Calatheas do not tolerate waterlogged or soggy soil, as it can lead to root rot. Choose a soil mix that promotes good drainage to prevent water from pooling around the roots. Avoid heavy or compacted soils that retain moisture for too long. A well-draining soil mix allows excess water to escape while retaining enough moisture for the plant's needs.

Calathea plants thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil with PH range between 5.5-7.0. Maintaining the proper PH level allows the plant to efficiently absorb nutrients from the soil. A recommended soil mix for Calathea is a peat-based or organic soil mix. These types of soil retain moisture well while remaining loose and airy, promoting healthy root growth. You can find pre-made mixes labeled specifically for tropical plants or create your soil mix. To enhance the drainage and aeration of the soil, you can incorporate additional components such as perlite, vermiculite, or coarse sand into the mix. These additives help prevent compacted soil and improve overall soil structure.

Some pre-packaged potting mixes might come with added fertilizer, it's recommended to use a standard potting mix without additional fertilizers. Calatheas are sensitive to over-fertilization, so it's best to control the nutrient levels separately through regular fertilization routines.

Remember to repot your Calathea plant every one to two years or when you notice that the soil has become compacted or waterlogged over time. Repotting allows you to refresh the soil and provide your plant with the proper growing conditions.

Propagation: Calatheas can be propagated through a few different methods, including division, stem cuttings, and in some cases, by collecting and planting their seeds.

1. Division: Division is one of the most common and reliable methods to propagate Calatheas.Carefully remove the parent plant from its pot and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each section has healthy roots and shoots. Plant each divided section in a separate pot filled with well-draining soil.

2. Stem Cuttings: Some Calathea varieties can be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem from the parent plant that has several leaves attached. Using a clean and sharp knife or scissors, make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove any leaves from the lower portion of the cutting, leaving a few leaves at the top. Place the cutting in a container with water or a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cutting in a warm and humid environment, and mist it regularly to maintain moisture. Once the cutting develops roots and starts growing, transplant it into a pot with suitable soil.

3. Seed Propagation: While it's less common, some Calathea species produce seeds that can be collected and planted for propagation.Collect mature seeds from the Calathea plant. Keep in mind that not all Calatheas produce viable seeds. Prepare a seed-starting tray or small pots with a well-draining soil mix. Sow the seeds on the soil surface and lightly press them in, but do not bury them too deep. Cover the tray or pots with a clear plastic cover or place them in a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide warm temperatures around 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C). Once the seeds germinate and the seedlings develop a few leaves, transplant them into individual pots.

Propagation needs time and patience, so it's essential to provide proper care to the newly propagated plants, including suitable light, temperature, humidity, and watering conditions. It's worth noting that not all Calatheas can be successfully propagated through all methods, so it's best to research the specific requirements of particular Calathea variety you are working with.