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Calathea Burle Marx: 19 Magnificent Tips

Calathea Burle Marx is a tropical plant with an eye-catching pattern that makes it an excellent choice for indoor gardeners.

In this detailed Calathea Burle Marx plant care guide, we’re diving into the how’s, why’s, and when’s of everything that your Calathea Burle Marx needs to stay healthy.

Find out where to acquire this Ctenanthe and its intriguing features and common hazards.

What Is Calathea Burle Marx?

Calathea Burle Marx is a well-known perennial today because of its attractive foliage.

It is commonly known as Fishbone Prayer Plant, Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii, and Burle Marx Calathea; it has long oval, green, and white stripes with purple underside-colored leaves, making it a beautiful décor for your home. Its leaves sport a fishbone pattern, hence one of its common names.

When Calathea Burle Marx is grown indoors, it can be placed near an east or west-facing window. When raised outdoors, it should be in hardiness zones 9-11 to survive.

Origin And Family

Fishbone Prayer Plant belongs to the Ctenanthe genus in the Marantaceae family. Natively, it’s from the rainforests of Brazil.

As part of the Marantaceae family, this plant also exhibits a behavior known as nyctinasty. This habit is why plants from this family are often referred to as “Prayer Plants.”

Plant cousins Calatheas, Stromanthes, and Marantas are known to be the more sensitive species from this family. The Fishbone Prayer Plant and other Ctenanthes are not as finicky, but they still require some elevated TLC.

Named in honor of landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, this plant was first scientifically named and described in 1982 by Dr. Helen Kennedy, an Honorary Research Associate of UBC. This species had been in cultivation for at least a decade before it was named by Dr. Kennedy.

This tropical plant has recently become popular among indoor growers. In early spring, it yields little tiny white blooms.

Where To Buy

Calathea Burle Marx’s are inexpensive to buy, ranging from $15 for immature plants to $30 for mature plants.

The Calathea Burle Marx is available for sale on Etsy, one of the most reliable sites when purchasing plants online. We now buy most of our indoor plants here.

Calathea Burle Marx Plant Size

The Fishbone Prayer Plant is a Ctenanthe plant that grows approximately 12-20 inches tall indoors. Its height, light, and humidity requirements make it ideal for east or west-facing windows.

Calathea Burle Marx Care Needs

Your Calathea Burle-Marxii will grow well when it’s properly taken care of. Known for its exciting foliage, this plant loves humidity and needs evenly wet soil to stay healthy.

When the soil is dry on top, water. Deeply water the pot and drain it. This magnificent plant requires bright indirect light to develop to its full potential.

Check out the complete care guide below for more recommendations!

Care Difficulty

This Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii is generally moderate-to-difficult to care for. The well-draining soil and amount of light are the most important considerations for this beauty.

Growth Rate

The Burle Marx Calathea grows to a mature height of 12-20 inches as a beautiful houseplant. Spring and summer usually see faster and bushier development.

The majority of Ctenanthe species, including the Burle Marx, grow moderately.

Potting

This tropical plant does well indoors and adapts to practically any potting medium. Plastic, terracotta, or clay planters work best for most growers.

Most plants require a medium-sized pot. So long as your container contains drainage holes, your plant should be protected from root rot.

Repotting

As your Calathea Burle Marx develops, you should consider moving it to a larger pot when you see roots push out of the drainage hole. Due to its slow growth, you will need to repot it every two years.

When repotting your Ctenanthe, use a new batch of soil to give its roots more nourishment. Take care not to touch its roots so much; this plant may be more robust than its cousins, but it still doesn’t like its roots disturbed.

Soil

For the Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii, a standard commercial potting soil is a suitable choice. Add together components such as peat, perlite, and sand to make your own right kind of soil mix. Remember that this plant prefers a moist growth medium.

Make sure your chosen soil type allows for excellent drainage and aeration so the roots can breathe.

We recommend the following potting mixes:

Photo Title Price Buy
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting...image Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Grows beautiful Houseplants, 6 qt. (2 Pack) $13.42 ($0.03 / Ounce)
Burpee, 9 Quarts...image Burpee, 9 Quarts | Premium Organic Potting Natural Soil Mix Food Ideal for Container Garden-Vegetable, Flower & Herb Use for Indoor Outdoor Plant $12.99 ($0.04 / Ounce)
Sun Gro Horticulture...image Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control, Brown/A $14.98 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix,...image Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, Potting Soil for Outdoor and Indoor Plants, Enriched with Plant Food, 2 cu. ft. $34.63
FoxFarm Ocean Forest...image FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil Mix Indoor Outdoor for Garden and Plants | Plant Fertilizer | 12 Quarts | The Hydroponic City Stake $23.99 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)

pH

The Burle Marx Calathea prefers an acidic pH of 5.6-6.5. You can test your soil’s pH with an inexpensive pH meter.

To reduce pH, use sulfur or aluminum sulfate. CaCl2, Dolomitic Lime, and Wood Ash can raise pH.

Water

The watering frequency will vary based on the temperature and the humidity in your plant’s surroundings. Generally speaking, your Fishbone Prayer Plant prefers an evenly wet growing medium.

Let the Fishbone Prayer Plant get dry, then water the top two inches. Avoid wetting the leaves to avoid fungus.

Hydrate with filtered or distilled water. Chlorine and fluoride in tap water are damaging to this attractiveness. In the event you must use tap water, let it sit overnight. Another option is rainwater.

Let the water run through the pot. If your plant is in a collection tray, remember to empty it. This plant does not like wet or soggy soil.

Light

Coming from the rainforests of Brazil, this plant is used to receive bright indirect light. 6-8 are the recommended hours of exposure for your Calathea Burle Marx in an indoor setting.

If left under a light that is too bright for long periods, its leaves will burn. Away from the window, use drapes and shades to screen the light.

On the other hand, if your Burle Marx is not getting as much light as it needs, it may grow slowly and get leggy. In this case, you can move your plant closer to a window and supplement it with grow lights. We recommend the following artificial lighting products:

This plant can be employed in any dark region of your house or garden and thrives in partial shade and soft light. Direct sunlight might severely injure or kill your Calathea Burle Marx.

Fertilizer

Many indoor growers overlook fertilization, believing that water and indirect light are good sources of nutrition. In reality, soil nutrients are equally as vital to plant health.

In the spring and summer, feed monthly. A balanced liquid fertilizer will work best for your Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii. If you’re using a more potent fertilizer, dilute it first.

In the winter, you don’t need to fertilize.

Propagating Calathea Burle Marx

Reproducing your Calathea Burle Marx can be done with the proper propagation method. Here are some options and thorough instructions to help you out.

Division

Plants with pups emerging from the roots are commonly divided.

To divide your Burle Marx Calathea stem clusters, follow these steps:

1. Dig up. Remove the plant from its pot. The plant’s natural divisions should be visible.

2. Separate. Gently separate the parts using your fingertips. Entangled roots may require shears to sever.

3. Repot. Plant each portion in fresh pots with the same soil.

Humidity And Aeration

Your Calathea Burle Marx needs an ideal humidity level of 60% or higher for rich-colored leaves and lush growth.

If you’re worried about humidity or observe browning edges on your plants’ leaves, buy a humidifier and keep it near them. A pebble tray can help improve the moisture by evaporation, and this will significantly benefit your Burle Marx’s health.

Temperature

The ideal temperature for your Burle Marx Calathea is between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit, and this tropical houseplant prefers warmer temperatures.

More crucial, avoid rapid temperature changes. Never water your Burle Marx Calathea with cold or hot water to prevent root shock. Prevent cold damage by keeping this plant away from air conditioners.

Flowers

Your Fishbone Prayer Plant may produce tiny white flowers in an indoor climate. Outdoors, this plant blooms in early spring.

Non-Toxic

Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii is not considered toxic to humans, dogs, or cats! This means it’s a great option to place in your home if you have fur babies! While this tropical beauty is a pet-friendly plant, it is still best to keep it away from your furry friends to keep it in pristine condition.

Soil Care Specifics
Botanical Name Calathea Burle Marx
Common Name Fishbone Prayer Plant, Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii, Burle Marx Calathea
Plant Family Marantaceae
Origin Brazil
Plant Type perennial
Leaf Shape oval
Leaf Color green and white stripes with purple underside
Recommended Home Placement near an east or west-facing window
Growth Rate moderate
Light bright indirect light
Soil standard commercial potting soil
When To Water Water when the top two inches of the soil are dry.
When To Fertilize once a month during growing season
Preferred pH 5.6-6.5
Humidity Range 0.6
Toxic To Pets? No
Common Pests & Diseases spider mites, brown tips, fungus gnuts, white flied, scale insects, yellow leabes, root rot, mealy bugs, drooping leaves

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

The Calathea Burle Marx is not a disease and pest-resistant plant. Here are some of the common pests, conditions, and problems, along with how to treat them.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are a common problem on houseplants, especially Burle Marx Calathea. Small brown or yellow spots emerge on the plant’s leaves. Severe infestations produce delicate, sticky webs swarming with red bugs.

To get rid of spider mites, properly wash your Burle Marx Calathea. This can be done in a sink, tub, or outside. If that doesn’t work, suffocate them with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil.

If you have several plants in your home, you might need to quarantine your sick plants while getting the spider mite population under control.

Fungus Gnats

A fungus gnat infestation might cause sudden wilting, yellowing, or poor growth in your Fishbone Prayer Plant.

Fungus gnats will appear if you overwater your Fishbone Prayer Plant. Wait 3 days before watering the top 2 inches of soil. This may destroy some soil larvae.

We placed yellow sticky cards nearby when we encountered these gnats in our hydroponics systems. These traps are effective in catching the adults. To kill the larvae, mix 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 4 cups of water and pour it onto the soil.

White Flies

Your plants may have whiteflies if their leaves are mottled, discolored, distorted, or fall off.

To attract and collect Whiteflies, utilize yellow glue-based traps.

Alternative: unleash a colony of natural predators in your indoor growing area. All of these beneficial insects will devour pests without affecting your plants.

Scale Insects

Adult scales are waxy and immovable, yet they spawn dashing bugs.

The armored scales can be scratched using an old ID card or your fingertips. Calathea Burle Marx’s leaves should not be ripped.

Suffocate scale insects using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. If you see crawlers, spray with a comprehensive pesticide, and reapply after a week. Here are some ideas:

Mealybugs

Mealybugs may infest your Burle Marx Calathea. These tiny parasites damage your Ctenanthe by inserting a feeding tube into the plant tissues and sucking on the sap, and they can eventually weaken or even kill your plant.

To get rid of them, wet a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol and physically pick them off. Spray neem oil on diseased leaves to suffocate bugs.

Brown Leaf Tips

Many factors can cause browning edges on your Fishbone Prayer Plant leaves. Lack of humidity, bright light, salt and mineral buildup from chemically treated tap water, and fertilizer burn are possible causes.

Drooping Leaves

Inconsistent watering, incorrect lighting, and low humidity can cause drooping leaves on Calathea Burle Marx. Cleaning your plant’s leaves with plain water and a microfiber cloth can help remove dust that can obstruct photosynthesis.

Yellow Leaves

If you see yellowing leaves on your Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii, you might need to consider several factors to determine the culprit.

Of course, bottom leaves that turn yellow can also indicate that your plant is growing and the leaf’s energy has been spent. In this case, simply pluck off the yellowing leaves so the plant can focus on increasing new green leaves.

Root Rot

Root rot swiftly spreads to the stem and leaves of Burle Marx Calathea.

Another cause of root rot is poor drainage in the soil, and this tropical plant requires a standard commercial potting soil that stays evenly wet.

To avoid root rot, drill holes in your pot, use high-porosity materials like terracotta and unglazed ceramic planters, and space your waterings out.

Similar Plants

Love Fishbone Prayer Plant? Here are some other similar plant options from the prayer plant family you should try:

Calathea Ornata: Another popular name for this gorgeous plant is “Pinstripe Plant” or “Peacock Plant,” a plant called for the colorful and multicolored stripes that decorate its leaves.

Calathea Makoyana – is a show-stopper as one of the most gorgeous interior Calatheas. It will enchant everyone, even those who aren’t fond of plants, with its long, thin stem and elegantly shaped leaves.

Calathea Beauty Star: Calathea Beauty Star stands out in the yard with its beautiful dark green leaves with silvery lines and stunning purple undersides. Its name says it all.

Calathea Orbifolia: This evergreen perennial is known for its large, white/silver-green banded leaves. It’s terrific to bring life to any interior environment and fill up the gaps.

Conclusion

Calathea Burle Marx is a beautiful decoration for your household, prized for its attractive foliage. Following our indoor care tips, you’ll have no trouble growing this Ctenanthe.

Do you have a Fishbone Prayer Plant in your collection? We’d love to see it! Please submit photos to [email protected], and we might post them on our blog!

Donate! Our affiliate links earn us money if you click on them and buy something. But all opinions are our own, and we never pay for positive ratings.

Care Tips for Calathea Triostar

Calathea Triostar is a tropical, moderate-to-difficult to care for plant. This houseplant is adored by plant collectors for its unique appearance and feel. Its elegant leaves, with their vivid pastel stripes, truly bring out the dreamy feel of any garden.

We’re presenting the most essential techniques and tricks for raising a Calathea Triostar!

We have various reasonable options for you to acquire one. Continue reading to discover Stromanthe’s intriguing features.

What Is Calathea Triostar?

Calathea Triostar is the botanical name for Calathea Stromanthe Triostar, Calathea Sanguinea, and Tricolor Stromanthe, known for its tricolor foliage.

Calathea Triostar is tropical and elegant because of its elliptical and pastel-colored leaves.

It can be cultivated indoors near an east or west-facing window or outdoors in hardiness zones 9-11.

Origin And Family

Calathea Stromanthe Triostar belongs to the Stromanthe genus in the Marantaceae family. Natively, it’s from the rainforests of Brazil.

Another fact about this beautiful Marantaceae family is that its plants are known to be “Prayer Plants.” This adds to the appeal of this prayer plant. On the other hand, this plant can be sensitive and have specific water requirements.

Where To Buy

Calathea Triostar plants can be found at your local nursery or home improvement store for a meager price. If not available, order one from Etsy.

The pricing of Calathea Triostar ranges between $15 for small plants to $30 for larger plants.

Calathea Triostar Plant Size

The Calathea Triostar grows about 2-3 feet tall and 2 feet wide as a houseplant. This stunning perennial prefers to be placed near an east or west-facing window and is considered a moderate grower.

Calathea Triostar Care Needs

Sanguinea Triostar plants require consistently moist soil all year. Water your summer plant when the top inch of soil is dry, and pour until water drains from the drainage hole. Empty the catch plate to prevent root rot.

See this complete care guide for your Calathea Triostar!

Care Difficulty

Calathea Sanguinea is moderately tough to care for. The most critical factors for its beauty are well-drained soil and ample sunshine.

Growth Rate

Tricolor Stromanthe’s growth rate is typically moderate. It should reach about 2-3 feet in height as it matures indoors.

Potting

A medium-sized container is usually acceptable. Plastic, terracotta, and clay pots all work well.

Calathea Stromanthe Triostar is susceptible to root rot. Make sure there are drainage holes in its pot.

Repotting

Moving your Calathea Triostar to a larger pot enables root expansion. Repot when the roots start to push out the drainage hole.

Repot this tropical plant every year or two. Replace old nutrient-deficient soil with a fresh batch of ordinary commercial potting soil when filling the new pot. It’s also a good idea to be very careful not to touch or disturb its root system too much. This beauty can be pretty temperamental.

Soil

Calathea Sanguinea prefers commercial potting soil. This plant’s roots prefer a damp environment; therefore, choose components that retain moisture well. Make your own soil with peat moss and perlite.

Root rot and other diseases can be avoided with efficient drainage. Consider adding chunky and gritty materials to your soil to improve aeration.

These are some excellent substrate options for your plant:

Photo Title Price Buy
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting...image Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Grows beautiful Houseplants, 6 qt. (2 Pack) $13.42 ($0.03 / Ounce)
Burpee, 9 Quarts...image Burpee, 9 Quarts | Premium Organic Potting Natural Soil Mix Food Ideal for Container Garden-Vegetable, Flower & Herb Use for Indoor Outdoor Plant $12.99 ($0.04 / Ounce)
Sun Gro Horticulture...image Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control, Brown/A $14.98 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix,...image Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, Potting Soil for Outdoor and Indoor Plants, Enriched with Plant Food, 2 cu. ft. $34.63
FoxFarm Ocean Forest...image FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil Mix Indoor Outdoor for Garden and Plants | Plant Fertilizer | 12 Quarts | The Hydroponic City Stake $23.99 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)

pH

A soil pH of roughly 6.0-7.5, neutral to acidic, is ideal for the Tricolor Stromanthe. You can test your soil’s pH with an inexpensive pH meter.

To reduce pH, use sulfur or aluminum sulfate. CaCl2, Dolomitic Lime, and Wood Ash can raise pH.

Water

Check the pot for moisture with your finger. Water when the dirt is dry.

In terms of water choices, it’s best to use distilled or filtered water to quench this beautiful plant. Tap water contains chlorine and fluoride compounds, which this plant hates, and rainwater is another option. Should you prefer to use tap water, let it sit overnight for up to 24 hours to allow the chemicals to evaporate.

Calathea Stromanthe Triostar needs drainage holes and aerated soil to drain excess water. You don’t want your plant sitting in too much water for an extended period; this plant doesn’t like soggy soil.

Light

Calathea Triostar prefers bright indirect sunlight for 6-8 hours per day. Remember, you’re trying to recreate the growing conditions in the rainforests of Brazil. Placing this plant near an east or west-facing window works well in most situations.

Your Calathea Triostar is getting too much light when its leaves will scorch and may lose their color. On the other hand, if it doesn’t get enough light, its growth will worsen.

Avoid putting your Calathea Triostar in direct sunlight or near a natural light source, as this could severely damage or even kill it. On the other hand, this plant can also thrive in partial shade or medium light conditions and place it in any dimmer spot in your home.

Fertilizer

Plants, like people, need more food when they are actively growing because they are using up a lot of their energy. For the Calathea Sanguinea, this growth spurt usually happens in spring and summer. During this time, you can apply a water-soluble fertilizer once a month.

You don’t need to fertilize at all in the winter months because plants’ roots usually go dormant in the cold. This means they won’t need extra food for growth.

Propagating Calathea Triostar

You may easily replicate your Calathea Triostar. See below for detailed instructions on each propagation method.

Division

The division is a standard method for propagating plants with pups emerging from the roots.

To split Tricolor Stromanthe stem clusters, follow these steps:

1. Dig up. Remove the plant from its pot. The plant’s natural divisions should be visible.

2. Separate. Gently separate the parts using your fingertips. Entangled roots may require shears to sever.

3. Repot. Plant each portion in fresh pots with the same soil.

Humidity And Aeration

Your Calathea Triostar needs high humidity between 70% and higher for rich-colored leaves and lush growth.

If you’re worried about humidity or observe browning edges on your plants’ leaves, buy a humidifier and keep it near them. To boost humidity, use a pebble tray with water, improving your Triostar’s health.

Temperature

Temperature ranges between 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit is best for your Tricolor Stromanthe.

Sudden temperature swings can be fatal for your Tricolor Stromanthe. During the winter, close windows and seal any openings where cold drafts may enter. Don’t place your indoor plants near appliances that emit heat, and avoid placing this plant near air conditioners to prevent freezing damage.

Flowers

If you can provide the best conditions for your plant and keep it at its happiest, you might be able to see insignificant light pink flowers. However, you must know that most plants generally bloom in an outdoor environment.

Non-Toxic

Calathea Sanguinea is not considered toxic to humans, dogs, or cats! This means it’s a great option to place in your home if you have fur babies! However, it is still safer to keep this pet-friendly calathea out of reach of your furry friends.

Soil Care Specifics
Botanical Name Calathea Triostar
Common Name Calathea Stromanthe Triostar, Calathea Sanguinea, Tricolor Stromanthe
Plant Family Marantaceae
Origin Brazil
Plant Type perennial
Leaf Shape elliptical
Leaf Color green with splashes of pink and cream variegation and purple undersides
Recommended Home Placement near an east or west-facing window
Growth Rate moderate
Light bright indirect light
Soil standard commercial potting soil
When To Water Water when the top inch of the soil is dry.
When To Fertilize once a month during growing season
Preferred pH 6.0-7.5
Humidity Range 70% or higher
Toxic To Pets? No
Common Pests & Diseases spider mites, brown tips, fungus gnuts, white flied, scale insects, yellow leabes, root rot, aphids, drooping leaves

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

The Calathea Triostar is not a disease and pest-resistant plant. Here are some of the common problems, conditions, and pests, along with how to treat them.

Spider Mites

Tricolor Stromanthe is sensitive to prevalent spider mites. Spider mite damage appears as little brown or yellow patches on leaves. Severe infestations may also show delicate silk webbing.

Start by spraying your Tricolor Stromanthe with water from a sink nozzle or a pressure sprayer. This removes spider mites from the plant. If the first treatment fails, use an organic pyrethrin spray.

Ladybugs can help reduce spider mite populations in indoor gardens if you want a natural method. The “Spider Mite Destroyer” beetle is equally tough to obtain, but the name says it all!

Fungus Gnats

Pests that infest the Calathea Stromanthe Triostar include fungus gnats. Their larvae can cause wilting and stunted growth in tropical plants.

Fungus gnats can be controlled by watering your plant from the bottom and drying the topsoil while nourishing the roots. Alternatively, sanding the topsoil prevents gnats from depositing eggs.

Hydrogen peroxide is a plant-safe chemical that kills fungus gnat larvae on contact. Drench your soil with four-part water, one-part hydrogen peroxide solution to get rid of these bugs.

White Flies

Whiteflies are tiny airborne insects that immediately fly around when a plant is moved. They are particularly attracted to the Calathea Stromanthe Triostar. They feed on leaves but rarely cause the death of plants.

Keeping them near your pest-ridden plant has an added benefit! The aroma of mint, parsley, and cilantro repels whiteflies.

Managing a heavy infestation necessitates the use of a pesticide. Here are several popular Amazon products we recommend against whiteflies:

Scale Insects

Scales eat sap, and it doesn’t just stay on one portion of the plant. Brown lumps were observed on plant stems or petioles.

To prevent scales from attaching to your Calathea Triostar, dilute a teaspoon of neem oil in 500 mL of water and spray it over the leaves.

You can also release ladybugs or lacewings near the affected plant to help solve the problem!

Aphids

Aphids are small insects that feed on Calathea Sanguinea leaves, causing black and brown blotches.

Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat an infestation. Weak concentrations of dish detergent can also kill aphids without harming your plant. Choose a fragrance-free product like Ivory Liquid.

Start with 1 teaspoon dish soap per gallon of water, then adjust as needed. Spray this solution on your plant, focusing on the undersides of leaves where aphids live.

Brown Leaf Tips

Occasionally, you might notice brown leaf tips on your Calathea Stromanthe Triostar. Typically, this indicates that your plant is under watered or is quickly losing moisture from its leaves through the process of transpiration.

Improve the humidity levels in your indoor growing space, or water your plant as soon as the topsoil dries out.

Brown leaf tips might also point to an issue with the plant’s roots, so make sure your plant has a breathable, well-draining growing medium.

Drooping Leaves

Infested Calathea Triostar leaves can droop. A lack of nutrients, loss of humidity, or underwatering can cause this prevalent issue.

Yellow Leaves

Yellowing Calathea Sanguinea leaves can be traced to recent changes in care or weather.

Overwatering, underwatering, over fertilizing, under fertilizing, too much light, lack of light, root damage, temperature swings, and pests can cause yellowing leaves.

Root Rot

A typical cause of death for the Calathea Triostar Pink is root rot when you overwater your plant. Keep in mind that you should use only water when the top inch of the soil is dry.

Poor drainage is another source of root rot, and this Stromanthe needs a standard commercial potting soil that drains well.

Make sure your plant’s pot includes drainage holes. Clay pots and unglazed ceramic planters can also help absorb moisture from the soil and slowly release it into the air.

Similar Plants

Love Calathea Stromanthe Triostar? Here are some other similar vibrant plants you should try:

Calathea Ornata: A tropical plant with lustrous and vivid stripes across the leaves, Calathea Ornata is an evergreen perennial. It’s also known as the “Peacock Plant” or “Pinstripe Plant.”

Calathea Makoyana: This tall, slender-stemmed plant with delicately patterned colorful leaves is likely to be the center of attention. It’ll look great in your indoor plant collection, and wow, anybody who sees it.

Calathea Beauty Star: This stunning lady is unquestionably a star. It features lovely dark green leaves with silvery lines and a purple underside.

Calathea Orbifolia: While this plant may need extra attention, trust us when we say it will be well worth it. Massive leaves with exotic-looking white/silver-green stripes adorn this gorgeous indoor plant. This plant is the perfect choice for you if you want large, visually appealing plants.

Conclusion

The Calathea Triostar is a stunning plant and is genuinely a delight to care for. Your efforts to care for this plant will be rewarded when you witness the pop of color and the dreamy tropical vibes it brings.

Can’t get enough of Stromanthe plant guides? Check out these other helpful articles from Two Peas In A Condo!

Donate! This post contains affiliate links, which means we get paid if you click on them and buy something. But all opinions are our own, and we never settle for positive ratings.

21 Incredible Calathea Louisae Care Tips You Should Know

Calathea Louisae is a tropical plant with a unique appearance that makes it an excellent choice for indoor gardeners.

This detailed care guide will go over everything your Calathea Louisae needs to stay healthy, including the hows, whys, and when.

Continue reading to learn where you may buy this Calathea and its distinguishing characteristics and typical dangers to avoid.

What Is Calathea Louisae?

Calathea Louisae, commonly known as Thai Beauty, Thai Beauty Calathea, and C. Louisae, is popular among plant lovers for its decorative leaves.

This tropical and popular plant is recommended to be placed near an east or west-facing window to flourish indoors. Outdoors, it thrives in hardiness zones 9-11.

Origin And Family

Thai Beauty is a member of the genus Calathea and the Marantaceae family, and it comes from the Brazilian rainforest.

This Thai Beauty is also referred to as a prayer plant, like most plants from the Marantaceae family. Calathea prayer-plants respond to temperature and light by folding up and down. The term for this type of activity or movement is nyctinasty.

Most summers, you’ll get to witness it blooming.

Where To Buy

You should be able to find Calathea Louisae at your local nursery, but if you want a hassle-free experience of selecting from a wide variety of plants online and having one delivered to you, Etsy is a great option! We’ve ordered several plants there and have been delighted with the delivery and the health of the plants.

Recently renamed Goeppertia Louisae for taxonomy reasons, most online stores and local nurseries still refer to it as its Calathea name.

You can buy a Calathea Louisae for about $15 for small plants up to $30 for larger or more mature plants for very affordable prices.

Calathea Louisae Plant Size

The Calathea Louisae is a moderate-growing houseplant when placed near an east or west-facing window. It can reach an average height of 4-8 inches and an average width of 2-4 inches in homes.

Calathea Louisae Care Needs

Though it is not a complex plant to care for, growing your Calathea Louisae to its complete potential demands the fulfillment of specific requirements. The Calathea Louisae, with its decorative leaves, loves humidity and needs evenly moist soil to thrive.

Water your Calathea when the soil’s top two inches are dry. As long as your pot has sufficient drainage, don’t be afraid to thoroughly saturate the soil during watering schedules to properly hydrate the roots. This lovely plant will do best in bright indirect light regarding light requirements.

Learn about your plant’s more specific care needs by reading our in-depth guide below!

Care Difficulty

This Thai Beauty Calathea is generally moderate-to-difficult to care for. The well-draining soil and amount of light are the most important considerations for this Beauty.

Growth Rate

The growing speed of a C. Louisae is typically moderate. Indoors, it reaches a mature height of 4-8 inches.

This plant’s height can be controlled by correctly cutting it during the growing season in the spring and summer.

Potting

This plant’s optimal potting material and size is a medium-sized pot made of plastic, terracotta, or clay. The most crucial consideration is that your vessel has at least one drainage hole to allow excess water to escape. Thai Beauty does not like sitting in water as they hate soggy soil; otherwise, it may succumb to root rot.

Repotting

As your Calathea Louisae develops, you should consider moving it to a larger pot if you see roots pushing through the drainage holes. Due to its modest growth rate, you will need to repot your plant every two years.

When repotting your Calathea, use a fresh batch of soil to give its roots more nutrients to absorb. Also, take special care not to touch this plant’s roots so much during the process. Calathea plants are known to be ultra-sensitive and hate having their roots disturbed.

Soil

Thai Beauty Calathea grows well in standard commercial potting soil. Combine peat moss and perlite to make your own potting mix. This plant prefers a consistent level of moisture in its soil.

Furthermore, appropriate drainage is essential to avoid fungal diseases, root rot, and other problems.

We propose the following soil types:

Photo Title Price Buy
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting...image Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Grows beautiful Houseplants, 6 qt. (2 Pack) $13.42 ($0.03 / Ounce)
Burpee, 9 Quarts...image Burpee, 9 Quarts | Premium Organic Potting Natural Soil Mix Food Ideal for Container Garden-Vegetable, Flower & Herb Use for Indoor Outdoor Plant $12.99 ($0.04 / Ounce)
Sun Gro Horticulture...image Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control, Brown/A $14.98 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix,...image Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, Potting Soil for Outdoor and Indoor Plants, Enriched with Plant Food, 2 cu. ft. $34.63
FoxFarm Ocean Forest...image FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil Mix Indoor Outdoor for Garden and Plants | Plant Fertilizer | 12 Quarts | The Hydroponic City Stake $23.99 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)

pH

You’ll need a soil pH of roughly 6.5-7.5, which is neutral to acidic, for the C. Louisae. If you’re concerned about acidity, you may test your soil with essential pH testing equipment that you can buy online.

If you suspect that the pH is too high, you can lower it by adding sulfur or aluminum sulfate.

Meanwhile, if your soil’s pH is too low, you can add baking soda, calcitic or dolomitic lime, or wood ash.

Water

Your Thai Beauty will want the soil to keep evenly moist between watering sessions. With your finger, feel the dirt to see if the top two inches are dry. If this is the case, thoroughly saturate your plant until water oozes out of the pot’s bottom.

Calatheas can be a bit choosy when it comes to their water choice, and they don’t respond well to chemicals like fluoride and calcium, compounds found in tap water. If you must use tap water, leave it to sit overnight for up to 24 hours to allow the contaminants to dissipate. Use distilled, rain, or filtered water.

Too much water will kill your plant. In most cases, under watering Thai Beauty is preferable to overwatering Thai Beauty. To keep your plant’s roots from drowning, use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.

Light

Coming from the tropical rainforests of Brazil, this plant is used to receive bright indirect light. In an indoor setting, 6-8 are the recommended hours of exposure for your Calathea Louisae.

Too much light will cause your plant’s leaves to burn. Move your plant away from the window or use drapes and shades to block off the intense light when this occurs.

On the other hand, if your Louisae is not getting as much light as it needs, it may lose its beautiful color. You can position your plant near a window and supplement it with grow lights in this situation. The following artificial lighting products are recommended by us:

This plant may also grow in medium-light and partial shade, and it can be placed in any low-light area of your home. Avoid exposing your Calathea Freddie to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can severely harm or even kill it.

Fertilizer

Feed your Calathea Thai Beauty if you want to give it some extra nutrient boost. Apply a water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the spring and summer growing seasons.

Here are some plant food alternatives to consider:

When growth naturally slows down during the winter season, you don’t need to fertilize.

Propagating Calathea Louisae

If your Calathea Louisae has grown too tall, you can trim it back and save the cuttings for replication! Below are step-by-step instructions for several propagation strategies.

Division

C. Louisae can be handed down during the division process. This method is most suited for vegetables with bulbs, tubers, stolons, rhizomes, and suckers, but it can also be used for houseplants with clumping stems.

1. Dig up. Remove the plant from its container. When working with plants and dirt, always wear gardening gloves.

2. Separate. You should observe where the roots and stems parted on their own. Pull them apart gently with your fingertips, and cut the hearts where the portions meet.

3. Repot. Place each portion in fresh pots filled with the same soil as before.

Humidity And Aeration

Calathea Louisae is a popular plant that loves high humidity. Keep the humidity at 70% or above.

Check the humidity in your Calathea Louisae’s area with a simple hygrometer. If the value is too low, you can increase the moisture by:

• Houseplants benefit from each other’s transpiration, keeping them close together.

• Put a pebble tray and water under the pot. The evaporating water feeds the plant.

The plants will release steam and raise the humidity in the space if you buy a humidifier.

Temperature

Generally, warm temperatures are best for your C. Louisae plant, and this can range between 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit.

The most crucial factor for this plant is consistency. C. Louisae can be severely harmed by sudden temperature fluctuations. Protect your plant from cold drafts by closing windows and sealing any openings in cold weather. Keep it away from heat vents, which can cause the leaves to dry up.

Flowers

If you can provide the best conditions for your plant and keep it at its happiest, you might be able to see insignificant white flowers. However, you must know that most plants generally bloom in an outdoor environment.

Non-Toxic

Children and pets won’t be poisoned by Thai Beauty Calathea. According to the ASPCA, ingesting it will not hurt dogs or cats, and there are no toxic components in the plant.

Soil Care Specifics
Botanical Name Calathea Louisae
Common Name Thai Beauty, Thai Beauty Calathea, C. Louisae
Plant Family Marantaceae
Origin Brazil
Plant Type perennial
Leaf Shape oval
Leaf Color deep green and bright yellow stripes with purple underside
Recommended Home Placement near an east or west-facing window
Growth Rate moderate
Light bright indirect light
Soil standard commercial potting soil
When To Water Water when the soil’s top two inches are dry.
When To Fertilize once a month during growing season
Preferred pH 6.5-7.5
Humidity Range 70% or higher
Toxic To Pets? No
Common Pests & Diseases spider mites, brown tips, fungus gnuts, white flied, scale insects, yellow leabes, root rot, aphids, mealy bugs, drooping leaves

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

Is your Calathea Louisae acting strangely? Most people believe that this is not a resistant plant to pests, illnesses, and other issues.

I’ve listed the most frequent diseases and concerns that affect this popular plant in the categories below. Use this website to diagnose and treat Calathea.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are unfortunately fairly common, and C. Louisae is particularly sensitive. Spider mite damage appears as little brown or yellow patches on the plant’s leaves. When the infestation is severe, you may also notice fine silk webbing.

Begin by saturating your C. Louisae with water using a sink nozzle or a pressure sprayer. This essentially removes the spider mites from the plant. If the first method does not work, an organic pyrethrin spray will come in handy.

If you prefer a more natural option, releasing ladybugs in your indoor growing space will help reduce spider mite populations. The “Spider Mite Destroyer” beetle may be challenging to obtain, but the name speaks for itself!

Fungus Gnats

If you notice your Thai Beauty suddenly wilting, yellowing, or growing slower than usual, it may signify that your plant has fungus gnats. These gnats look like a tinier version of mosquitoes that lightly flutter about your plant.

When you spot these moisture-loving pests, keep the topsoil dry by switching to bottom-watering instead of pouring water from above. Another approach is to cover your topsoil with diatomaceous earth, dehydrating the larvae and dissuading the adults from laying more eggs.

Fungus gnat larvae can be killed by soaking the soil in four parts water and one part hydrogen peroxide if the infestation is severe.

White Flies

Whiteflies are gnat-like pests that feed on the sap of your houseplants. Having them on your Thai Beauty can be a significant inconvenience. They deposit eggs which will hatch into larvae that eat the undersides of your plant’s leaves.

You can get rid of Whiteflies using a general pesticide. You may either buy it online or make one using the recipe below:

• To create your base, mix these ingredients together: 5 drops of dish soap (no bleach!) + 1 cup of vegetable or olive oil

• For every cup of water, add 1.5 tbsp of the prepared mixture

• Shake the solution well and then transfer it to a spray bottle.

• Spray all surfaces of the infected plant, especially on the underside of leaves.

Scale Insects

Adult scales are sedentary and have a waxy coating on their bodies, yet they can give birth to tiny crawling bugs.

Armored scales may be scraped off, but you must do so gently with an old ID card or your fingers. Take care not to rip your Calathea Louisae’s leaves.

Use insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil to suffocate scale insects. If you see active crawlers, spray with a comprehensive pesticide. After a week, repeat the process with a second application. We propose the following products:

Aphids

Aphids are especially drawn to new shoots, flower buds, and new growth areas. They will leave behind ugly black and white splotches as they feed on the sap.

If you see these disgusting crawlers, segregate your poisonous plant from the others right away. Spray your plant with water to expel the aphids, but remember to cover the soil with plastic to collect any falling bugs and eggs. Dispose of the plastic at a location that is not in your garden.

It may take numerous applications of insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil to entirely eliminate the aphid population.

Mealybugs

Your most effective weapon against mealybugs is rubbing alcohol. On touch, it kills mealybugs and turns them a translucent brown color. Spray the pests with a diluted solution of alcohol and water.

Brown Leaf Tips

Low humidity, underwatering, root injury, and soil compaction can create brown leaf tips on your Thai Beauty.

Occasionally, flushing excess minerals, salts, fertilizers, and chemicals from the soil with water for a few minutes may be required. Using a fast-draining substrate and a pot with drainage holes won’t accidentally drown your plants’ roots.

Drooping Leaves

A wilting, droopy appearance on your Calathea Louisae indicates distress. Possible causes of drooping leaves of a Calathea plant are overwatering, underwatering, excessive light exposure, lack of light, and low humidity.

Yellow Leaves

If you see yellowing leaves on your Thai Beauty Calathea, you might need to consider several factors to determine the culprit.

Of course, yellowing bottom leaves can also signify that your plant is expanding and that the leaf’s energy has been depleted. Simply remove the fading leaves in this scenario so that the plant may concentrate on growing new green leaves.

Root Rot

Root rot is a widespread killer of the C. Louisae. Some indoor gardeners might get overzealous with their watering or forget to provide adequate drainage for their plants, and these two mistakes are the two leading causes of root rot.

Use pots high in porosity (such as clay, unglazed ceramic, and concrete) to allow excess moisture to escape from the sides. Give your plant a well-aerated soil mix to let its roots breathe and grow freely.

Similar Plants

Love Thai Beauty? Here are some other plants that are similar that you should try:

Calathea Ornata: The “Pinstripe Plant” or the “Peacock Plant” is another common name for the Calathea Ornata, a plant for the vibrant and multicolored stripes adorned its leaves.

Calathea Makoyana: As one of the most stunning interior Calatheas, Calathea Makoyana is a show-stopper. Its long, slender stem and perfectly sculpted leaves will enthrall everyone, even those who aren’t interested in plants.

Calathea Beauty Star: Beautiful dark green foliage with silvery lines and brilliant purple undersides make Calathea Beauty Star a standout in the garden. Its name says it all.

Calathea Orbifolia: Big, white/silver-green banded leaves star this evergreen perennial. It’s excellent for giving vitality and filling up the voids in any indoor space.

Conclusion

Calathea Louisae is a gorgeous plant for your home with its decorative leaves. You’ll be able to grow this plant with ease if you follow our maintenance instructions.

Do you have a Calathea Louisae? We want to see it! Please send pictures to [email protected], and we might share them on our blog.

Assist us in expanding! We will be compensated if you click on one of the links and purchase something we recommend. However, our judgments are our own, and we do not accept payment for positive ratings.

Calathea Freddie – Care Tips For All Skill Levels

Calathea Freddie is a tropical plant with a unique appearance that makes it an excellent choice for indoor gardeners. Its leaves are shiny, elongated, and greyish-green in color, with zebra stripes and borders in a darker shade.

This comprehensive care guide will go over the hows, whys, and whens of everything your Calathea Freddie requires to keep healthy.

Continue reading to learn where you can purchase this Calathea and its unique characteristics and typical hazards to avoid.

What Is Calathea Freddie?

The Calathea Freddie is also known as Calathea Concinna, Concinna Freddie Prayer Plant, and Freddie Plant. All varieties of Calathea are considered staple plants because of their uniquely patterned foliage. Although being diverse plants, the majority of them are commonly referred to as Zebra Plants.

This perennial from the Marantaceae family is well-known for its stunning striped foliage. It has oval-shaped and greyish-green in color with dark-green stripes and border-colored leaves.

Like most plants from this family, the Freddie Plant is also referred to as a prayer plant. Calathea prayer plants have a habit of folding up and down in response to temperature and light as if they are praying, and this behavior or movement is known as nyctinasty.

As for Calathea Freddie, many claim that its movement is not as pronounced as its cousins, but you get to observe slight changes in its leaf position throughout the day. It did, however, inherit the common Calathea trait of being overly sensitive.

We’ll focus on the best circumstances for growing the Calathea Freddie indoors, but it may also be grown outside in hardiness zones 10-11.

Origin And Family

Calathea Concinna belongs to the genus Calathea in the Marantaceae family. Most summers, you’ll be able to see its tiny delicate white blossoms.

Where To Buy

Calathea Freddie can be purchased in a nursery or a home improvement store, and it’s usually better to buy it on Etsy, where you’ll likely find more affordable options. Etsy frequently provides fantastic deals from plant enthusiasts who cultivate this variety in their homes as a hobby.

Recently renamed Goeppertia Concinna for taxonomy reasons, this plant is still often referred to as its Calathea name by most online stores and local nurseries.

Calathea Freddie has very affordable pricing, starting from $15 for starter plants up to $30 for larger or more mature plants.

Calathea Freddie Plant Size

The Calathea Freddie reaches between 2-3 feet tall and 4-7 inches wide when mature as a houseplant. This plant will look good near an east or west-facing window.

Calathea Freddie Care Needs

Your Calathea Freddie will grow well when it’s properly taken care of. Known for its stunning striped foliage, this plant loves humidity and needs evenly moist soil to stay healthy.

Deeply water the pot, allowing it to drain through the drainage hole. This fascinating plant needs bright indirect light to reach its maximum growth potential in terms of light.

For more specific tips, check out the detailed care guide below!

Care Difficulty

In terms of care difficulty, the Concinna Freddie Prayer Plant is moderate-to-difficult to care for. The most critical factors in its beauty are the well-draining soil and the amount of light.

Growth Rate

The growing speed of a Freddie Plant is typically moderate. Indoors, it reaches a mature height of 2-3 feet.

You may control the height of this plant by trimming it properly during the growing season in the spring and summer.

Potting

You can go for a medium-sized pot made of plastic, terracotta, or clay for potting requirements. An essential requirement is that the vessel contains at least one drainage hole for excess water. It hates soggy soil, so leaving your Calathea Concinna in wet soil could kill your plant for extended periods.

Repotting

To maintain your plant’s health, move it to a larger pot after it reaches a particular size. When you see its roots pushing out of the drainage hole, you’ll know it’s time to repot.

Take special care not to touch or disturb its roots too much as you repot. This plant is ultra-sensitive and doesn’t appreciate being disturbed.

On average, Calathea Freddie grows moderately and needs to be repotted every two years. Because soil loses its natural nutrient components over time, it’s best to repot using ordinary commercial potting soil.

Soil

For the Concinna Freddie Prayer Plant, a standard commercial potting soil is suitable. Add together components such as peat moss and perlite to make a convenient soil mix. Keep in mind that this plant prefers an evenly moist growing medium.

Make sure your chosen soil type accommodates good drainage and aeration so the roots can breathe better.

We recommend the following potting mixes:

Photo Title Price Buy
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting...image Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Grows beautiful Houseplants, 6 qt. (2 Pack) $13.42 ($0.03 / Ounce)
Burpee, 9 Quarts...image Burpee, 9 Quarts | Premium Organic Potting Natural Soil Mix Food Ideal for Container Garden-Vegetable, Flower & Herb Use for Indoor Outdoor Plant $12.99 ($0.04 / Ounce)
Sun Gro Horticulture...image Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control, Brown/A $14.98 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix,...image Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, Potting Soil for Outdoor and Indoor Plants, Enriched with Plant Food, 2 cu. ft. $34.63
FoxFarm Ocean Forest...image FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil Mix Indoor Outdoor for Garden and Plants | Plant Fertilizer | 12 Quarts | The Hydroponic City Stake $23.99 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)

pH

Your Freddie Plant likes acidic soil, meaning you should keep the pH level at 6.0-6.5. If you’re concerned about acidity, you can buy a simple pH testing tool to examine your soil.

Regulate excessive pH levels on your soil with sulfur or aluminum sulfate. Improve low pH levels by adding baking soda, calcitic or dolomitic lime, or wood ash.

Water

Calathea Concinna requires regular watering, and over watering increases the risk of illnesses such as root rot. If you rarely water your plants, the roots may become dry, especially on hot days. Calathea Concinna should be grown in an evenly wet growth medium.

Calatheas are a little finicky, and they are susceptible to substances found in tap water, such as fluoride and calcium, when it comes to water. Allow tap water to sit for up to 24 hours overnight to allow contaminants to disperse. You can also use distilled water or rainwater as an alternative, and another approach is to use filtered water.

There is an easy technique to tell if your plant needs to be watered. Check the pot with a wooden stick or a pencil to see if there is still moist, muddy soil adhering to it. Alternatively, you can simply feel dampness with your finger. When the top inch of dirt on your plant feels dry, it’s time to water it.

Excess moisture can be removed by using a porous pot with drainage holes and an aerated, chunky soil mix.

Light

This houseplant prefers bright indirect light for approximately 6-8 hours a day. Too much light and its leaves will lose their color and get burned. Too little light and its leaves droop.

If you’re concerned that your Calathea Freddie isn’t getting enough light, consider moving it closer to a window or utilizing artificial lighting. Here are some basic options to think about:

This plant can also thrive in medium-light conditions, and you can place it in any low-light spot in your home. Avoid putting your Calathea Freddie in direct sunlight for a long time, which could severely damage or even kill it.

Fertilizer

The Concinna Freddie Prayer Plant’s growing season is in the spring and summer. During this time, fertilize your plant once a month using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

You don’t need to fertilize this plant during the winter when its growth naturally slows.

Propagating Calathea Freddie

If your Calathea Freddie has grown too tall, you can cut the stem back and save the cuttings for propagation! We’ve provided step-by-step instructions for various propagation methods below.

Division

Freddie Calathea can be passed down through a process known as division. While this method is most suited for vegetables with different bulbs, tubers, stolons, rhizomes, and suckers, it can also be utilized for houseplants with clumping stems.

1. Dig. Remove the plant from its container. When working with plants and dirt, always wear gardening gloves.

2. Separate. You should be able to observe where the roots and stems parted on their own. Pull them apart gently with your fingers. Remove the seeds where the parts meet.

3. Repot. Place each portion in fresh pots filled with the same soil as before.

Humidity And Aeration

Calathea Freddie is a fascinating perennial that loves high humidity like most tropical plants. We recommend keeping the air humidity levels around 70% or higher for best results.

In addition to taking water through its roots, your lovely plant will require nourishment from the moisture in the air. You can keep bowls of water around to evaporate or invest in a humidifier that will provide more regular humidity for your plant. Another option for increasing humidity is a pebble tray.

Temperature

Your Freddie Plant will prosper in a warm area, so keep the temperature between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Like other Calathea plants, this tropical houseplant will benefit from constant temperatures throughout the year. When watering your plant, avoid using hot or cold water. It should be maintained away from sources of heat (such as heaters and vents) and cold temperatures (such as open windows during the winter months).

Flowers

Although a rare occurrence in an indoor environment, you might be able to witness your Calathea Concinna producing insignificant white flowers under the right conditions. Each blooms on a long stalk-like inflorescence that grows out from the center of the plant. Outdoors, this plant blooms most summers.

Non-Toxic

Humans and animals are not poisoned by the Concinna Freddie Prayer Plant. Ingesting it would not harm dogs or cats, according to the ASPCA. The plant contains no components that are harmful to humans. Still, it is best to keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Soil Care Specifics
Botanical Name Calathea Freddie
Common Name Calathea Concinna, Concinna Freddie Prayer Plant, Freddie Plant
Plant Family Marantaceae
Origin Brazil
Plant Type perennial
Leaf Shape oval
Leaf Color greyish-green in color with dark-green stripes and borders
Recommended Home Placement near an east or west-facing window
Growth Rate moderate
Light bright indirect light
Soil standard commercial potting soil
When To Water Water when the soil’s top inch is dry to touch.
When To Fertilize once a month during growing season
Preferred pH 6.0-6.5
Humidity Range 0.7
Toxic To Pets? No
Common Pests & Diseases spider mites, brown tips, white flied, scale insects, yellow leabes, root rot, aphids, mealy bugs, drooping leaves

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

Even with competent care, things can go wrong on occasion. Pests and diseases are unavoidable aspects of gardening, and as a whole, the Calathea Freddie is not a disease and pest-resistant plant.

Learn how to diagnose common problems and how to help your plant recover from them in the sections that follow.

Spider Mites

Houseplants can occasionally bring unwanted guests into your home in the form of pests, and the spider mite is one such example. Although the larvae are not visible, adult mites can be seen scampering around when disturbed.

Spraying diluted neem oil on your plant’s leaves can help eradicate spider mites at their larval stage. There are also organic Pyrethrin sprays that are effective in killing adult mites. When spraying any pesticide indoors, make sure you choose products that are non-hazardous for humans when inhaled.

White Flies

Whiteflies, which are soft-bodied winged insects, may be drawn to the Calathea Concinna. While adult whiteflies are usually harmless, they will lay eggs that hatch into larvae to feed on your plant’s leaves.

Another cause of browning leaf tips is a lack of moisture. Water your plant properly, and increase the humidity in your home.

Organic alternatives include neem oil, horticultural oil, and insecticidal soap.

Scale Insects

Scale insects may appear as lumps on your Calathea Freddie’s stems or leaves. Once they’ve latched onto a plant, these tiny beetles, which might be green, gray, brown, or black in color, usually remain sedentary.

If the infestation isn’t too bad, you can discourage scale insects from attacking your plant by diluting a teaspoon of neem oil in four glasses of water. Using a spray bottle, liberally mist the plant.

Although neem oil and horticulture oils will not kill the bugs, they will undoubtedly hurt them. There are numerous insecticide sprays against scales regarded as safe to use indoors.

Aphids

Aphids are tiny insects that consume the sap of your Concinna Freddie Prayer Plant. Some aphids are crawlers, while others are winged. They can be any hue, including brown, black, red, green, white, etc.

Aphids live on the undersides of leaves, unfurling shoots, and weak places on the stem. If you encounter these insects (which are generally in a group), act swiftly before they spread to other houseplants!

To begin, wrap the dirt in a plastic bag. Then, using soap and water, thoroughly clean your plant. You can even use a sponge to ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned. After washing, place your plant in a shaded area with sufficient airflow so that the soap does not burn the leaves.

If the aphids come back, spray your Concinna Freddie Prayer Plant with neem oil, horticultural oil, or rubbing alcohol. Remember to dilute these products first.

Mealybugs

Mealybug infestations are somewhat common on Freddie Plant. Act quickly if you notice these tiny parasites (typically recognizable by white puffs on the leaves) on any of your houseplants.

Pour isopropyl alcohol on a cotton ball, then rub it over the leaves and stem of your plant. Neem oil also works well as a prophylactic spray.

Brown Leaf Tips

A buildup of salts and minerals in the soil is a common cause of browning margins on your Calathea Concinna leaves. This usually occurs when you apply too much fertilizer or utilize chemically treated tap water.

Lack of moisture is another cause of browning leaf tips. Water your plant as needed, and increase the humidity in your home.

Drooping Leaves

Drooping Calathea Freddie leaves are usually an indication that your plant is thirsty. Once hydrated, your plant will usually perk back up in this situation. It may also assist in raising the humidity.

Take care! Plants infected with pests may initially have droopy and curled leaves, but they will gradually acquire other symptoms such as spots, reduced development, and a general loss in health. If you suspect pests, always check the underside of the leaves.

Yellow Leaves

If you see yellowing leaves on your Concinna Freddie Prayer Plant, you might need to consider several factors to determine the culprit. You might be watering your plant too little or too much. Or perhaps it isn’t getting enough light. Did you fertilize your plant recently? Are there sudden changes in the weather?

Of course, bottom leaves that turn yellow can also indicate that your plant is growing and the leaf’s energy has been spent. In this case, simply pluck off the yellowing leaves so the plant can focus on increasing new green leaves.

Root Rot

Overwatering, inadequate drainage, or fungal spores on the soil can cause root rot in plants. Root rot is difficult to treat, so it is best to take precautions.

The best way to prevent rot in Freddie Plant is to ensure that the root system is not consistently exposed to wet conditions. Always check for soil moisture before watering your plant. Use a chunky soil mix to allow airflow in the roots. Most importantly, use a porous pot that has drainage holes.

Similar Plants

Love Calathea Concinna? Here are some other similar popular indoor plants you should try:

Calathea Ornata – Due to its bright and colorful stripes across its leaves, this plant is also known as the “Pinstripe Plant” or “Peacock Plant.” The Ornata is a tropical-looking evergreen perennial that’s a must-have for any tropical garden.

Calathea Makoyana: This plant is a show-stopper as one of the most beautiful Calathea indoor plants. It will captivate the attention of everyone, especially non-plant enthusiasts, with its tall, thin stem and finely sculpted leaves.

Calathea Beauty Star: has gorgeous dark green leaves with silvery streaks and a bright purple underside. Its name definitely speaks for itself.

Calathea Orbifolia: This evergreen perennial is a must-have for its vast leaves with gorgeous white/silver-green bands. It’s excellent for filling empty areas and bringing life to any place.

Conclusion

With its stunning striped foliage, Calathea Freddie is a gorgeous ornamental plant that looks stunning indoors. You’ll have no issue cultivating this plant if you follow our care recommendations!

Have you got a Calathea Concinna? We want to see it! Send photos to [email protected] so that we can share them on our blog.

Assist us in expanding! This article has affiliate advertisements, which means that if you click on one of the links and buy something we recommend, we will be reimbursed. However, our judgments are our own, and we do not accept compensation for positive ratings.

The 27 Best Care Tips For Calathea Setosa – You Need These!

Calathea Setosa is a tropical, moderate-to-difficult-to-care-for plant that can brighten any indoor garden. This houseplant is popular among plant collectors because of its unusual appearance and texture.

People who work with Calathea Setosa will tell you the most essential things you need to know about how to care for one of them.

Our cheap options will help you decide if this is something you want to buy for yourself. Continue reading to understand more about this Ctenanthe’s fascinating characteristics.

What Is Calathea Setosa?

The Calathea Setosa is a perennial from the Marantaceae family. It is characterized by dark green and silvery stripes with purple or maroon underside oval leaves and is prized for its attractive foliage.

Also known as Never-Never Plant, Ctenanthe Setosa, and Compact Star Plant, the Calathea Setosa grows well in east or north-facing windows as a houseplant.

Like many plants from Marantaceae, this beautiful plant is also considered a Prayer Plant. This is due to nyctinasty, a plant behavior of folding up and down in response to temperature and light. During the day, they fold up and appear to rest, or fold down at night, as if they are praying. These plants can be pretty sensitive too, but the Never-Never Plant is less sensitive than the other prayer-plants.

Most of this article discusses how to grow this plant indoors, but you can keep this Ctenanthe plant outside in hardiness zones 9-12.

Origin And Family

While known for its common name Calathea Setosa, this specific variety is not a member of the genus Calathea. The plant actually belongs to the genus Ctenanthe, which is still a member of the family Marantaceae. It comes from the rainforests of Brazil.

This tropical plant, first described in 1902 by Charles Jacques Édouard Morren and Karl Moritz Schumann, has become a favorite among houseplant collectors. Most summers, you’ll get to witness it blooming.

Where To Buy

Calathea Setosas are very affordable on average. You can get one for yourself by visiting your local plant stores, but there are cheaper deals and more comprehensive selections on online sites such as Etsy.

Calathea Setosa Plant Size

Indoors, the Calathea Setosa reaches a height of 3-7 feet and 16 inches. This Ctenanthe grows at a moderate rate and beautifully thrives when placed east or north-facing.

Calathea Setosa Care Needs

When properly cared for, your Calathea Setosa will thrive like any other houseplant. With its attractive foliage, this plant adores humidity and wants evenly moist soil throughout the year.

You should water your Ctenanthe when the top two inches of soil are dry. For most people, this is when they should do it. Allow enough time for the water in the pot’s drainage hole to drain. This appealing plant needs bright indirect light to thrive in terms of lighting.

We have a detailed care guide below that you can read to get more specific help.

Care Difficulty

The Ctenanthe Setosa is often regarded as moderate to difficult to care for. The suitable soil and amount of light are essential to growing this plant.

Growth Rate

The growing speed of a Compact Star Plant is typically moderate. Indoors, it reaches a mature height of 3-7 feet.

With the proper pruning during the spring and summer, you can keep this plant from getting too tall.

Potting

You can go for a medium-sized pot made of plastic, terracotta, or clay for potting requirements. An essential requirement is that the container contains at least one drainage hole to drain excess water.

Too much water and leaving your Never Never Plant in wet soil for extended periods could kill your plant.

Repotting

As your plant grows and expands, you might consider upgrading from your current pot to a more enormous container on an as-needed basis. Typically, the need to repot occurs every one to two years because this plant grows at a moderate pace.

When repotting, you can use a new batch of standard commercial potting soil, the ideal growing medium for your Calathea Setosa. Do take special attention when transferring to the unique pot. This plant hates its roots being disturbed or touched.

Soil

Ctenanthe Setosa thrives on regular commercial potting soil. This plant’s roots like a uniformly moist environment, so choose components with the appropriate moisture-retention characteristics for your soil. To get the ideal soil mix, combine peat, perlite, and sand.

With proper drainage, root rot and other diseases can be avoided. To promote aeration, consider adding chunky and gritty items to your soil.

These are some excellent substrate options for your plant:

Photo Title Price Buy
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting...image Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Grows beautiful Houseplants, 6 qt. (2 Pack) $13.42 ($0.03 / Ounce)
Burpee, 9 Quarts...image Burpee, 9 Quarts | Premium Organic Potting Natural Soil Mix Food Ideal for Container Garden-Vegetable, Flower & Herb Use for Indoor Outdoor Plant $12.99 ($0.04 / Ounce)
Sun Gro Horticulture...image Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control, Brown/A $14.98 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix,...image Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, Potting Soil for Outdoor and Indoor Plants, Enriched with Plant Food, 2 cu. ft. $34.63
FoxFarm Ocean Forest...image FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil Mix Indoor Outdoor for Garden and Plants | Plant Fertilizer | 12 Quarts | The Hydroponic City Stake $23.99 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)

pH

For the Compact Star Plant, you’ll want your soil to have a neutral to acidic pH, approximately between 6.1 and 7.1. In general, you don’t need to be too worried about a standard commercial potting soil with a pH level close to that.

Change the soil’s pH by adding wood ash, calcitic lime, or dolomitic lime. You can do this to raise the pH and add baking soda or wood ashes. If the pH level is too high, there are ways to make it less acidic. Use sulfur or aluminum sulfate to do this, but you can also use baking soda.

To figure out the soil’s pH level, use soil moisture meters that double as pH testers.

Water

In other words, the amount of water your plant needs will depend on the temperature and humidity in the place where it grows. Generally speaking, your Never Never Plant prefers an evenly moist growing medium.

Avoid overwatering your Never Never Plant. Your plant needs water when the top two inches of soil are dry. Soak the soil with water, but be careful not to wet the leaves. This will help you avoid fungal diseases. Calathea plants prefer distilled water as they are sensitive to some of its compounds, and this variety is no different. Tap water can be left out overnight or for up to 24 hours before watering your plant.

Water should run through the pot’s bottom. It’s important to remember to empty the collection tray if your plant is in one. This plant doesn’t like sitting in wet soil.

Light

This houseplant needs bright indirect sunlight for about 6-8 hours a day. It’s not easy to care for, but it’s not impossible either. If there’s too much direct sunlight, the leaves may lose their color. If there’s a lack of light, it may lose its variegation and may get leggy.

A lot of people don’t give their plants enough light. You can move them closer to a window or buy LED grow lights if they don’t get enough sunlight. I think you’ll like these:

Avoid putting your Calathea Setosa in direct sunlight, which could severely damage or even kill it. On the other hand, this plant can also thrive under medium light conditions, and you can find a low light spot in your home for this plant. The Never-Never Plant can also tolerate lower light conditions or partial shade to a certain degree.

Fertilizer

Ctenanthe Setosa thrives with a well-balanced liquid fertilizer. For example, Expert Gardener All Purpose Fertilizer would work. Feed your plant once a month during the spring and summer.

Because growth naturally slows down in the winter, you don’t need to fertilize.

Propagating Calathea Setosa

A Never-Never Plant can be grown if you know how to do it correctly. There are many ways to develop this tropical houseplant.

Stem Cuttings In Soil

Stem cuttings planted right into the ground are a simple way to grow your Never Never Plant. Plant this plant in the early spring when it is in full bloom.

1. Cut. Find a healthy part of your plant with new growth, and make a cutting that is at least 3 inches long and has some visible nodes. Make sure your scissors are clean to avoid getting sick from bacteria.

2. Plant. Make sure the cutting is in wet soil with the nodes buried. To hold the cutting in place, press the dirt around its stem.

3. Maintain. To help the plants grow faster, keep the soil moist regularly. Keep the plant near a window that gets a lot of light but not direct sunlight.

4. Wait. Soon, you should see buds on the top leaves, which means that your cutting has now grown roots!

Stem Cuttings In Water

Here are the steps in successfully developing Ctenanthe Setosa cuttings in water:

1. Cut. Cut the stem below a node with a strong knife. Remove the flower stalks and lower leaves from your cutting, so they can put their energy into making roots.

2. Submerge. Take a cutting and put it in an old glass bottle. Fill it with water and shake it. Any part of the stem that isn’t above the water should not have any leaves.

3. Maintain. A window with a lot of light and good airflow is the best place for your new plant. If you have a humidifier near them, the leaves will stay green, so keep one nearby.

4. Refill. 3-5 days: Check the water every few days to make sure it’s clean

5. Transplant. When the roots are about an inch or longer, your cutting is ready to be potted in soil.

Division

Compact Star Plants can be grown through a process called “divide.” This method is used to plant things like bulbs and tubers for vegetables, and it can also be used for houseplants with stems that grow together in clumps.

1. Dig. Remove the plant from its pot. Wear gloves when you work with plants and soil.

2. Separate. The roots and stems should split up, and as you gently move them apart with your fingers, they will come apart. In this case, cut off the roots where the sections come together.

3. Repot. Each section should be put in a new pot filled with the same soil.

Humidity And Aeration

High humidity levels (around 60% or higher) are best for your Calathea Setosa.

Lack of humidity in houseplants is often characterized by crispy leaves and browning edges. Consider getting a humidifier or placing your plant in well-lit spaces naturally higher in moisture (bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms). A pebble tray of water can help your plants grow.

Temperature

Your Compact Star Plant will prosper in a warm area, so keep the temperature between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Like most Ctenanthe plants, this tropical houseplant likes to stay at the same temperature all year long. When you water your plant, don’t use hot or cold water. If you leave your windows open in the winter, you could get cold damage. People who have furnaces and vents should keep them away from them. People who live in challenging places should keep it away from them (like open windows).

Flowers

The Calathea Setosa can produce insignificant white flowers most summers.

Non-Toxic

Ctenanthe Setosa is not thought to be harmful to humans, dogs, or cats. Whether or not you have pets, this is a good thing to have in your home. Although, it’s best to keep it out of reach of children and energetic pets to keep it safe.

Soil Care Specifics
Botanical Name Calathea Setosa
Common Name Never Never Plant, Ctenanthe Setosa, Compact Star Plant
Plant Family Marantaceae
Origin Brazil
Plant Type perennial
Leaf Shape oval
Leaf Color dark green and silvery stripes with purple or maroon undersides
Recommended Home Placement east or north-facing window
Growth Rate moderate
Light bright indirect light
Soil standard commercial potting soil
When To Water Water when the top two inches of the soil is dry.
When To Fertilize once a month during growing season
Preferred pH 6.1-7.1
Humidity Range 0.6
Toxic To Pets? No
Common Pests & Diseases spider mites, brown tips, white flied, scale insects, yellow leabes, root rot, aphids, mealy bugs, drooping leaves

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

The Calathea Setosa is not a disease and pest-resistant plant. Here are some of the common problems, infections, and pests, along with how to treat them.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are a common problem, particularly among Compact Star Plant plants. It begins with small, brown, or yellow spots on your plant’s leaves. Check your plant, too. It could be that it has slowed down or not grown at all.

Begin by spraying down your Compact Star Plant with something that can be used to wash dishes. Getting rid of spider mites isn’t the only thing you can do. There are many ways to do this, and you can also use your garden hose. In addition, you can spray the leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Make sure to spread the leaves on all sides, including the underside.

It’s also possible to use beetles called “Spider Mite Destroyer.” They can be used to get rid of spider mites, too! You can also get ladybugs and lacewings and Stethorus picipes beetles if you want them. If your plant has spider mites, these bugs will eat them.

White Flies

Whiteflies are minor, grayish-white bugs that look like tiny moths. They fly around like that, and the sap they get from your Never Never Plant can damage the leaves.

A vacuum can get rid of whiteflies and their eggs. You must empty your vacuum bag outside before bugs have a chance to grow inside of it.

Spray the leaves with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil in a severe infestation. These products will cover the eggs, larvae, and adults, suffocating them, so they can’t move. Reapply for the chosen treatment when it’s time.

Scale Insects

There is a waxy coating on the scales, but they will give birth to tiny crawling bugs that will move around independently.

When you remove the armored scales, you’ll have to be very careful because you could hurt yourself. A piece of paper, like an old ID card, can be used to scrape them off. If you don’t want to rip up your plant’s leaves, be careful not to do it.

They can be killed with insecticide soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil, used to kill bugs. It’s best to spray your plant with a general pesticide when you see crawlers moving around, so they don’t spread. Try again in a week. We have some ideas for you below:

Aphids

Minor bugs called aphids will eat the sap from your Ctenanthe Setosa if you let them. Some aphids crawl, and some have wings. Some can be brown or black or red or green or white, and they can also be a lot of different colors!

It’s possible to find aphids on the underside of leaves and on weak stem parts. If you find these bugs, act quickly before they spread to other plants in your home!

Do this first to protect the soil. Then, wash your plant with soap and water. It’s also good to use sponges when you clean your house because you don’t want to miss any places. Ensure your plant isn’t too hot and has a lot of airflows after you wash it, so its leaves don’t get burned by the soap.

If the aphids come back, spray your Ctenanthe Setosa with neem oil, horticultural oil, or rubbing alcohol. Remember to dilute these products first.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs are white, fuzzy insects that suck the nutrients from plants and are basically the botanical equivalent of head lice on humans. These pests can stunt plant growth or even kill your Compact Star Plant.

To send these nasty crawlers packing, you can directly spray them with neem oil (but remember to dilute it in water first). Another option is to take a cotton ball, soak it in Isopropyl alcohol, and rub it over the leaves and stem.

If you have several houseplants, you may need to quarantine your infected Compact Star Plant until there are no more signs of mealybugs.

Brown Leaf Tips

If the tips of your Never Never Plant’s leaves start to turn brown, you might want to check on a few things.

It’s essential to make sure that the humidity in your home is not too low. Curtains can block the sun if it’s too bright for your plant. Fertilize your plants in the right amount, but not too much. To get rid of extra minerals and salts, let the water run through the soil for a while.

Drooping Leaves

Leaf drooping can be caused by mealybugs and other pests that infest the Calathea Setosa. Underwatering, a lack of humidity, and a lack of nutrients can all contribute to this issue.

Yellow Leaves

A variety of reasons might induce yellowing leaves on Ctenanthe Setosa. A lack of light might deplete your plant of nutrients and cause its leaves to turn yellow. Alternatively, there could be an issue with underwatering, overwatering, or a general uneven watering schedule.

Remove fading leaves so that the plant can concentrate its efforts on developing new green leaves.

Root Rot

A typical cause of death for the Compact Star Plant is root rot when you overwater your plant. Remember that you should use only water when the top two inches of the soil are dry.

People who don’t water their plants well can also get root rot. This Ctenanthe needs standard commercial potting soil that drains well.

You should look for drainage holes when choosing a pot for your plant, which will let any extra water drain away. The clay pots and unglazed ceramic planters can also help the soil hold on to water and slowly release it into the air.

Similar Plants

Love Never-Never Plant? Other plants you should try:

Calathea Ornata: This tropical plant has shiny and bright stripes on its leaves. It’s also known as the “Pinstripe Plant” and the “Peacock Plant.”

Calathea Makoyana: This tall, slender-stemmed plant has leaves with many details. If you have an indoor garden or a plant collection, this is sure to be the show’s star.

Calathea Beauty Star: Who can resist this beauty? With stunning, dark green leaves with silvery stripes and a deep purple underside, this gorgeous plant is a sight to behold.

Calathea Orbifolia: This stunning indoor plant has massive leaves with exotic-looking white/silver-green bands. If you are a lover of vast and beautiful plants, this is the perfect plant for you.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a charming plant with a bit of flair, the Calathea Setosa is an attractive choice, and its beautiful foliage is a true treat.

You can’t get enough of Ctenanthe plant guides, can you? Check out these other posts from Two Peas In A Condo and see what else we have to offer!

Let’s grow together! This article has affiliate advertisements, which means that if you click on a link and buy something that we recommend, we get paid. However, all of our opinions are our own, and we do not accept money for good reviews.

23 Remarkable Calathea White Star Care Tips Every Gardener Needs

Calathea White Star is a tropical plant with unique features that make an excellent addition to any plant lover’s collection. Its contrasting white and green foliage with violet undersides and subtle pink blush is definitely a style statement.

This guide will go through the dos and don’ts and everything else you need to know about keeping your Calathea White Star happy.

What Is Calathea White Star?

The Calathea White Star is also known as Calathea Majestic, White Star Calathea, and Majestic Prayer Plant.

This perennial member of the Marantaceae family is well-known for its elegant foliage, and it has oval-shaped and white and green-colored leaves.

Like most plants from this family, White Star Calathea is also referred to as a prayer plant. Calathea plants, like its Maranta cousins, which is another genus in the Marantaceae family, have a habit of folding up and down in response to temperature and light as if they are praying. Hence, the “Prayer Plants” moniker. They are also known to be a bit more sensitive and dramatic than other tropical plants.

White Star Calathea is a cultivar of the Ornata species and is often mistaken for its relatives Pinstripe Calathea and even the Vittata variety. It does have more stripes that almost fill the whole leaf, making it easier to differentiate.

There’s more to this plant than its elegance and beauty, however. Historically, its durable, waxy leaves were used to create baskets that transport fish and rice – a method still used in parts of South America today.

Origin And Family

The Calathea Majestic comes from the Calathea genus, which belongs to the Marantaceae family. This plant is native to the Brazilian jungles. It has become a popular houseplant that is typically moderate to difficult to care for in recent years.

Discovered in 1822 by Georg Meyer, this tropical plant makes a great addition to any indoor grower’s collection.

Where To Buy

For gardeners who want a Calathea White Star packed securely and delivered straight to their home, Etsy offers various options and deals on houseplants.

Calathea White Star was recently renamed Goeppertia Majestica for taxonomy reasons. However, you may still see most online stores and local gardens call it by its Calathea name.

Purchasing a Calathea White Star is usually very affordable, with prices that range between $20 for small plants and $40 for larger or more mature plants.

Calathea White Star Plant Size

The Calathea White Star, as a houseplant, reaches a height of 4-5 feet and a width of 1-2 feet. It typically grows moderate. For best plant development, place it near an east or west-facing window.

Calathea White Star Care Needs

Your Calathea White Star, with its elegant foliage, will flourish if you take good care of it. This plant loves humidity and evenly moist soil throughout the year.

When the top inch of your Calathea is dry to the touch, water it. Make sure to thoroughly saturate it, allowing water to drip down the sides of the pot. Bright indirect light is optimal for this plant in terms of illumination.

Check out the more detailed growing advice we’ve included below to keep your Calathea White Star healthy and happy.

Care Difficulty

With its light, water, and humidity needs, the White Star Calathea is typically considered moderate to difficult to care for. To properly cultivate this plant, you must utilize well-draining soil and allow enough light.

Growth Rate

The Majestic Prayer Plant plant grows 4-5 feet in height when grown to its maturity indoors. Its growing season is in the spring and summer.

Most Calathea species, including the White Star, have a moderate growth rate.

Potting

You can go for a medium-sized pot made of plastic, terracotta, or clay for potting requirements. An essential requirement is that the vessel contains at least one drainage hole. Leaving your Calathea Majestic in wet soil for extended periods could kill your plant.

Repotting

Moving your Calathea White Star to a larger container gives its roots more room to grow. When you observe roots pushing through the drainage holes, it’s usually time to repot. Calatheas are incredibly fragile plants that dislike being touched or disturbed; therefore, remove the plant with caution.

This tropical plant should be repotted every year. When filling the new container, it is recommended to replace old nutrient-deficient soil with a fresh batch of regular commercial potting soil.

Soil

White Star Calathea prefers ordinary commercial potting soil. The optimum soil components include perlite, peat moss, and orchid bark. Aeration and drainage are essential for this plant, which requires moderate to demanding maintenance.

Here are some excellent growing medium options to choose from:

Photo Title Price Buy
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting...image Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Grows beautiful Houseplants, 6 qt. (2 Pack) $13.42 ($0.03 / Ounce)
Burpee, 9 Quarts...image Burpee, 9 Quarts | Premium Organic Potting Natural Soil Mix Food Ideal for Container Garden-Vegetable, Flower & Herb Use for Indoor Outdoor Plant $12.99 ($0.04 / Ounce)
Sun Gro Horticulture...image Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control, Brown/A $14.98 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix,...image Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, Potting Soil for Outdoor and Indoor Plants, Enriched with Plant Food, 2 cu. ft. $34.63
FoxFarm Ocean Forest...image FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil Mix Indoor Outdoor for Garden and Plants | Plant Fertilizer | 12 Quarts | The Hydroponic City Stake $23.99 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)

pH

Your soil should have an acidic pH, ideally between 6.0 and 6.5, for the Majestic Prayer Plant. A regular commercial potting soil has a pH level close to that range, so you shouldn’t be too concerned.

If you need to elevate the pH of your soil, you can use calcitic lime or dolomitic lime, wood ash, or baking soda. If you are concerned that the pH is too high, you can reduce it using sulfur or aluminum sulfate.

To determine the pH of the soil, use a standard soil moisture meter that also functions as a pH tester.

Water

This rare plant is a humidity-loving plant that needs evenly moist soil throughout the year.

Soak the soil in water until it pours out the bottom hole of the plastic, terracotta, or clay container. If you use a collection tray, remove any excess water to avoid root rot and other infections.

In the winter, you won’t have to water as much. Continue to deeply moisturize your plants, but do it less regularly.

While most house plants can be watered using tap water, Calatheas prefer distilled or filtered water. They react differently to chemicals like fluoride and calcium – compounds found in tap water. If you choose to use tap water, let it sit overnight for up to 24 hours to allow the chemicals to evaporate. However, while fluoride is typically not found in significant amounts in tap water, it does not evaporate so easily. If you are concerned about fluoride levels in your tap water, distilled might be your best bet. Rainwater is another good option.

Light

Calathea White Star prefers bright indirect light for approximately 6-8 hours daily. Keep in mind that you’re attempting to replicate how it grows in the rainforests of Brazil. Most of the time, placing this plant near an east or west-facing window is sufficient.

When its leaves show signs of scorching, you’ll know your Calathea White Star is getting too much sunlight. Conversely, if its leaves start to turn yellow and wilt, the plant needs more light.

Avoid putting your Calathea White Star in direct sunlight, which could severely damage or even kill it. The Majestic Calathea can also tolerate medium light conditions or partial shade, so any low light location can be a good spot in your home.

Fertilizer

The growing season for White Star Calathea is throughout the spring and summer. Fertilize your plant once a month throughout this period using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

In the colder seasons, when this plant’s development naturally slows, you don’t need to fertilize.

Propagating Calathea White Star

With the appropriate propagation strategy, you can replicate your Calathea White Star. Below are several options to consider and thorough instructions to assist you.

Division

The division method is a method of propagation commonly employed for plants with pups sprouting from the roots.

Follow these instructions to separate the stem clusters of your Majestic Prayer Plant:

1. Dig. Remove the plant from its container. You should be able to see the natural divisions of the plant.

2. Separate. Gently separate the parts using your fingertips. To cut any entangled roots, you may need to use shears.

3. Repot. Plant each part in fresh pots with the same soil they’ve been using.

Humidity And Aeration

High humidity levels ( 60% or higher) are best for your Calathea White Star.

Lack of humidity in houseplants is often characterized by crispy leaves and browning edges. Consider purchasing a humidifier or locating your plant in well-lit areas that are naturally humid (such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms). A pebble tray filled with water can also be used to enhance humidity.

Temperature

Temperature ranges between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit is best for your Majestic Prayer Plant.

Sudden temperature swings can be fatal for your Majestic Prayer Plant. During the winter, close windows and seal any openings where cold drafts may enter. Keep it away from freezing temperatures to avoid freezing damage. Don’t place your plant near appliances that emit heat.

Non-Toxic

The White Star Calathea is not poisonous to humans or animals. According to the ASPCA, it will not harm dogs or cats if swallowed, and there are no toxic ingredients in the plant. Even though this Calathea variety is a pet-friendly plant, it is a good idea to keep it out of their reach, so they are not disturbed.

Soil Care Specifics
Botanical Name Calathea White Star
Common Name Calathea Majestic, White Star Calathea, Majestic Prayer Plant
Plant Family Marantaceae
Origin Brazil
Plant Type perennial
Leaf Shape oval
Leaf Color white and green
Recommended Home Placement near an east or west-facing window
Growth Rate moderate
Light bright indirect light
Soil standard commercial potting soil
When To Water Water when the top inch is dry to touch.
When To Fertilize once a month during growing season
Preferred pH 6.0-6.5
Humidity Range 60% or higher
Toxic To Pets? No
Common Pests & Diseases spider mites, brown tips, fungus gnuts, white flied, scale insects, yellow leabes, root rot, aphids, mealy bugs, drooping leaves

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

Overall, I would say that the Calathea White Star is not a disease and pest-resistant plant. Here are some quick fixes for joint pain and some essential tips for keeping this plant healthy.

Spider Mites

Unfortunately, spider mites are widespread, and Majestic Prayer Plant is particularly vulnerable. Spider mite damage appears on the plant’s leaves as tiny brown or yellow patches. You might also see fine silk webbing when the infestation is severe.

Start by spraying down your Majestic Prayer Plant with water from a sink nozzle or a pressure sprayer. This essentially removes the spider mites from the plant. If the first method does not work, an organic pyrethrin spray will come in handy.

If you prefer a more natural option, releasing ladybugs in your indoor growing space will help reduce spider mite populations. The “Spider Mite Destroyer” beetle may be challenging to obtain, but the name speaks for itself!

Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnat larvae consume plants’ roots, not the fungus gnats. These pests love moisture, and your Calathea Majestic is particularly vulnerable because it favors evenly moist soil.

Fungus gnats are well named for their proclivity to invite fungal infections in your plant and drain nutrients from the roots. Yellow sticky traps can be set up to detect the emergence of these bugs and catch them as they fly.

A cider-vinegar trap can also be used to attract gnats. Fill a cup halfway with water and apple cider vinegar. To function as an emulsifier, add a few drops of liquid soap. Place the trap near the afflicted plant and watch the nasties drown!

White Flies

Whiteflies are gnat-like pests that feed on the sap of your houseplants. Having them on your Calathea Majestic can be a significant inconvenience. They deposit eggs which will hatch into larvae that eat the undersides of your plant’s leaves.

You can get rid of Whiteflies using a general pesticide. You may either buy it online or make one using the recipe below:

• To create your base, mix these ingredients together: 5 drops of dish soap (Check that it does not contain any bleach!) + 1 cup of vegetable or olive oil

• For every cup of water, add 1.5 teaspoons of the prepared mixture

• Shake the solution well and then transfer it to a spray bottle.

• Spray all surfaces of the infected plant, especially on the underside of leaves.

Scale Insects

Scale insects may appear as lumps on your Calathea White Star’s stems or foliage. Once they’ve latched onto a plant, these tiny beetles, which might be green, gray, brown, or black in color, typically remain sedentary.

If the infestation isn’t too severe, diluting a teaspoon of neem oil in four glasses of water will deter scale insects from attacking your plant. Using a spray bottle, liberally mist the plant.

Although neem oil and horticulture oils will not kill the bugs, they will harm them. There are numerous insecticide sprays against scales regarded as safe to use indoors.

Aphids

Aphids typically appear as a swarm of bugs on your White Star Calathea, and they could be green, black, red, brown, yellow, orange, or white in color. They reproduce exceedingly quickly and can devastate your plant in days!

Aphids are especially drawn to new shoots, flower buds, and new growth areas. They will leave behind ugly black and white splotches as they feed on the sap.

If you see these disgusting crawlers, segregate your poisonous plant from the others right away. Spray your plant with water to expel the aphids, but remember to cover the soil with plastic to collect any falling bugs and eggs. Dispose of the plastic at a location that is not in your garden.

A spray of insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil can take care of the problem, but you may need to repeat this several times until you’re sure that the aphid population has been completely eradicated.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs may infest your Majestic Prayer Plant. Act quickly if you see these tiny parasites with their white fluff. On contact, a cotton swab coated in rubbing alcohol will kill mealies, rendering them brown or orange in color. As a prophylactic step, a spray of diluted Neem oil works nicely.

Brown Leaf Tips

Browning margins on your Calathea Majestic’s leaves are commonly caused by salt and mineral deposits in the soil. This usually occurs when you apply too much fertilizer or utilize chemically treated tap water.

Lack of moisture is another cause of browning leaf tips. Water your plant as needed, and increase the humidity in your home.

Drooping Leaves

Your Calathea White Star’s leaves may drop if it does not receive the right amount of hydration and light. Check out our Water and Light pages above to learn about the best ways to care for your plant.

Low humidity can also cause drooping leaves, so make sure to check the humidity levels in your location and make sure they meet your plant’s demands.

Yellow Leaves

If you notice yellowing leaves on your White Star Calathea, you may need to explore various variables to determine what’s causing it. Is it possible you’re watering your plant too little or too much? Is enough light reaching it? What about fertilizer? Is the weather changing suddenly?

In fact, yellow bottom leaves can simply indicate that your plant is growing and the leaf’s energy has been spent. Simply pull off the fading leaves in this scenario so that the plant may focus on generating new green leaves.

Root Rot

Majestic Prayer Plant death is frequently caused by root rot, and indoor gardeners may overwater their plants or fail to provide sufficient drainage for their plants. Given the complexity of treating root rot, prevention is the best course of action.

Allow your roots to breathe by using a well-aerated soil mix. Sand, coal, bark, perlite, pumice, stones, soil, and other coarse and gritty materials will significantly improve your plant’s drainage.

Before selecting whether or not to water your plant, consider the weather. Moisture will evaporate more slowly if your plant is in a region with insufficient sunlight and airflow. Before giving your plant a thorough drink, always check if the soil is dry approximately halfway down the pot.

Similar Plants

Love Calathea Majestic? Here are some other similar indoor plant options you should try:

Calathea Ornata: This plant is often called the “Pinstripe Plant” and “Peacock Plant” due to its shiny and colorful stripes across its leaves. The Ornata is an evergreen perennial that brings a tropical vibe to your home.

Calathea Makoyana: As one of the most stunning indoor plants from the Calathea genus, this plant is a show-stopper. With its tall, slender stem with intricately designed leaves, it will capture everyone’s attention, including non-plant lovers.

Calathea Beauty Star – This exotic plant sports stunning dark green leaves, silvery stripes, and even a deep purple underside. Need we say more?

Calathea Orbifolia: Its massive leaves with stunning white/silver-green bands make this evergreen perennial a must-have. It’s great for filling up spaces and enlivening any rooms. Calatheas are not beginner-friendly plants, but all your TLC will be worth it.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a staple plant with some wow factor, the Calathea White Star is excellent. Simply follow the advice we’ve provided above, and you’ll be well on your way to realizing your plant’s full growing potential.

Can’t get enough of Calathea plant guides? Check out these great Two Peas In A Condo possibilities!

Assist us in growing! This page contains advertising links, which means that if you click on one of the links and buy something we recommend, we will be reimbursed. Our opinions, however, are our own, and we do not accept payment for positive reviews.

The Beginners Guide To Calathea Rufibarba – 21 Care Tips

Calathea Rufibarba is a stunning plant with a unique appearance that makes it an excellent choice for indoor gardeners. Its wavy green leaves are lanceolate, have a velvety feel, and sport a dark purple underside. This plant is supported by red stems to complete its truly enticing ensemble.

In this detailed care guide, we’re diving into the how’s, why’s, and when’s of everything your Calathea Rufibarba needs to stay healthy.

Continue reading to learn where you can purchase this Calathea and its unique characteristics and typical hazards to avoid.

What Is Calathea Rufibarba?

The Calathea Rufibarba is also known as Furry Feather Calathea and Fuzzy Calathea because of its fluffy leaves. Not to be confused with the somewhat similar-looking Calathea Lancifolia, this plant is also often referred to as Velvet Calathea. The name Rufibarba is derived from the Latin Rufus, meaning ‘red’ and Barba, meaning ‘beard,’ about its leaves’ fuzzy undersides.

This perennial from the Marantaceae family is well-known for its unique appearance and texture. It has lanceolate-shaped and rich green with maroon undersides-colored leaves.

One fun fact about plants from Marantaceae is that most of them are known to be “Prayer Plants.” This is due to their habit of folding up and down in response to temperature and light, known as nyctinasty. Plants from the Calathea genus have the same rhythm, but it’s not as pronounced as their Maranta cousins. They do, however, share the same level of sensitivity and this particular prayer plant requires some focused TLC.

We’ll concentrate on the ideal conditions for growing Calathea Rufibarba indoors, but it may also be grown outside in hardiness zones 9-11.

Origin And Family

The Furry Feather Calathea comes from the Calathea genus, which belongs to the Marantaceae family, and it is from the forests of Bahia state in northern Brazil. It has become a popular houseplant that is typically moderate to difficult to care for in recent years.

First described in 2012 by Finn Borchsenius and Stella Suárez, this stunning plant makes a great addition to any indoor grower’s collection. Most summers, it produces insignificant large yellow flowers.

Where To Buy

Calathea Rufibarba can be found in a variety of locations. You can purchase one at a local nursery, but it will typically cost more, and you would need to haul the plant in your car. We’ve found that ordering plants online is a more cost-efficient option. Etsy has regular discounts and a wide selection of cuttings and full-grown plants.

Recently named Goeppertia Rufibarba for taxonomic reasons, this plant is still referred to by its Calathea name by most online stores and local nurseries.

The Calathea Rufibarba is very affordable, with prices between $15 for 4-inch plants and $30 for more mature plants.

Calathea Rufibarba Plant Size

The Calathea Rufibarba is a slow-to-moderate-growing houseplant near an east or west-facing window. It can reach an average height of 1 meter and an average width of 3-4 inches in homes.

Calathea Rufibarba Care Needs

Your Calathea Rufibarba will grow well when it’s properly taken care of. Known for its unique appearance and texture, this plant loves humidity and needs evenly moist soil to stay healthy.

Watering this plant is best after the top inch of soil has dried, and deep water the pot, allowing it to drain through the drainage hole. This exciting plant needs bright indirect light to reach its maximum growth potential in terms of light.

For more specific tips, check out the detailed care guide below!

Care Difficulty

While all plants necessitate some level of care, most indoor gardeners consider the Fuzzy Calathea to be moderate to tough to care for. With the right combination of well-draining soil and amount of light, you can keep this plant in its best health.

Growth Rate

When grown indoors, the Velvet Calathea plant grows to 1 meter, and it develops the fastest during the spring and summer months.

Most Calathea species, including the Rufibarba, have a slow-to-moderate growing speed.

Potting

It is usually acceptable to use a large container in terms of container size. The majority of potting materials, such as plastic, terracotta, or clay, will perform nicely.

Furry Feather Calathea is susceptible to root rot. Make sure there’s good drainage in its pot to drain excess water.

Repotting

As your Calathea Rufibarba develops, you should consider moving it to a larger pot; it dries out pretty quickly between waterings. Because of its slow-to-moderate growth rate, you will need to report your plant every two years.

When repotting your Calathea, use fresh soil to give its roots more nutrients to assimilate. When transferring to the new pot, you need to pay special attention as this plant is hyper-sensitive and hates its roots being disturbed or touched.

Soil

The Fuzzy Calathea thrives in regular commercial potting soil. This plant’s roots like a uniformly moist environment, so choose components with the appropriate moisture-retention characteristics for your soil. The ideal ground should have perlite and peat moss if you plan to create your own soil mix.

With proper drainage, root rot and other diseases can be avoided. To promote aeration, consider adding chunky and gritty items to your soil.

These are some excellent substrate options for your plant:

Photo Title Price Buy
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting...image Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Grows beautiful Houseplants, 6 qt. (2 Pack) $13.42 ($0.03 / Ounce)
Burpee, 9 Quarts...image Burpee, 9 Quarts | Premium Organic Potting Natural Soil Mix Food Ideal for Container Garden-Vegetable, Flower & Herb Use for Indoor Outdoor Plant $12.99 ($0.04 / Ounce)
Sun Gro Horticulture...image Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control, Brown/A $14.98 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix,...image Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, Potting Soil for Outdoor and Indoor Plants, Enriched with Plant Food, 2 cu. ft. $34.63
FoxFarm Ocean Forest...image FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil Mix Indoor Outdoor for Garden and Plants | Plant Fertilizer | 12 Quarts | The Hydroponic City Stake $23.99 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)

pH

Your Velvet Calathea likes neutral to acidic soil, meaning you should keep the pH level at 6.0-7.0. If you’re concerned about acidity, you can buy a simple pH testing tool to examine your soil.

Regulate excessive pH levels on your soil with sulfur or aluminum sulfate. Improve low pH levels by adding baking soda, calcitic or dolomitic lime, or wood ash.

Water

When watering Furry Feather Calathea, you’ll want to aim to keep your soil evenly moist. Stick a finger into the pot or invest in a soil moisture meter device to gauge moisture. You’ll know it’s time to water your Calathea when the top inch of the soil is dry.

Overwatering is basically the most common cause of indoor plant mortality. When in doubt, keep in mind that it’s safer to underwater than over water the Furry Feather Calathea. Also, make sure you have fast-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes to drain too much water.

Another essential thing to note about this plant is its preference for filtered or distilled water. Being a fuzzy plant, it does not react well to chemicals like fluoride and calcium – compounds found in tap water. Should you prefer to use tap water, let it sit overnight or for up to 24 hours to allow the chemicals to evaporate. Rainwater is another option, if available.

Light

You’ll want to simulate the natural environment of Calathea Rufibarba, which would be the rainforests of Bahia state of northeastern Brazil. Give your Rufibarba bright indirect sunlight for 6-8 hours each day. This plant can also be placed near an east or west-facing window.

You’ll know your Calathea Rufibarba is getting too much sunlight when its leaves start turning brown. On the contrary, if this plant doesn’t get enough light, its foliage may begin drooping.

Avoid putting your Calathea Rufibarba in direct sunlight, as this could severely damage or even kill it. On the other hand, this plant can also thrive in medium light conditions, placing it in any low light spot in your home. It can also tolerate common light conditions or partial shade to a certain degree.

Fertilizer

Many indoor growers overlook fertilization, believing that water and brilliant indirect light are good sources of nutrition for their plants. In reality, soil nutrients are equally as crucial to the health of your plants.

Feed your plant monthly in the spring and summer. A water-soluble fertilizer will work best for your Fuzzy Calathea. If you’re using a more potent fertilizer, you may need to dilute it first.

In the winter months, you don’t need to fertilize at all.

Propagating Calathea Rufibarba

If your Calathea Rufibarba has grown too large, you can trim it back and save the cuttings for propagation! We’ve provided step-by-step instructions for various propagation methods below.

Division

You can also propagate a Velvet Calathea by dividing the clusters of stems with entangled root systems.

1. Dig up. To loosen the soil, tap the sides of the container with your tiny shovel. Pull gently on the plant until it comes out.

2. Separate. You should be able to see the natural boundary of each stem and separate them using your hands. You may need to cut the roots but be careful not to disrupt the main root balls.

3. Repot. Repot each section in smaller pots filled with the same soil they’re used to.

Humidity And Aeration

Calathea Rufibarba is an exciting plant that loves high humidity levels. Keep the humidity level at 60% or higher at all times.

Use a simple hygrometer to check the air moisture level in your Calathea Rufibarba’s area. If the reading is too low, you can improve the humidity through the following methods:

• Plants release moisture from their leaves through transpiration, so they’ll benefit from each other if you keep houseplants closely together.

• Place a pebble tray and water underneath your plant’s pot. The evaporating water provides some nourishment to the plant.

• Purchase a humidifier for your plants, and this will constantly release steam and raise the humidity in a room.

Temperature

Like most Calathea plants, your Velvet Calathea will do best in a location with warm temperatures. Keep the temperature between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Houseplants can be sensitive to drastic shifts in temperature, so make sure you keep your Velvet Calathea away from heat sources such as vents, hand dryers, furnaces, and other appliances. In the same way, don’t expose your plant to chilly drafts, cold temperatures, and frost spells during the winter.

Flowers

Albeit rarely, the Furry Feather Calathea can produce flowers that are insignificant and yellow. In optimum conditions, this plant blooms most summers.

Non-Toxic

Fuzzy Calathea is not considered toxic to humans, dogs, or cats! This means it’s a great option to place in your home, whether you have fur babies!

Soil Care Specifics
Botanical Name Calathea Rufibarba
Common Name Furry Feather Calathea, Fuzzy Calathea, Velvet Calathea
Plant Family Marantaceae
Origin Bahia state of northeastern Brazil
Plant Type perennial
Leaf Shape lanceolate
Leaf Color rich green with maroon undersides
Recommended Home Placement near an east or west-facing window
Growth Rate slow-to-moderate
Light bright indirect light
Soil standard commercial potting soil
When To Water Water When the top inche of the soil is dry.
When To Fertilize once a month during growing season
Preferred pH 6.0-7.0
Humidity Range 60% or higher
Toxic To Pets? No
Common Pests & Diseases spider mites, brown tips, white flied, scale insects, yellow leabes, root rot, aphids, mealy bugs, drooping leaves

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

The Calathea Rufibarba is not a disease and pest-resistant plant. Here are some of the common problems, conditions, and pests, along with how to treat them.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are an unwelcome but common problem on houseplants, especially Velvet Calathea. Spider mite damage appears initially as tiny brown or yellow specks on your plant’s leaves. When the infestation is intense, delicate, sticky webs teeming with red bugs may be visible.

Begin by thoroughly scrubbing every nook and cranny of your Velvet Calathea to expel the spider mites. This must be done on a sink, tub, or outside. If it doesn’t work, you can smother the spider mites with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil.

If you have several plants in your home, you might need to quarantine your sick plants while getting the spider mite population under control.

White Flies

Whiteflies may infest your plants if they have mottled, discolored leaves distorted or falling off. These insects are relatives of mealybugs, scales, and aphids.

Use glue traps to catch Whiteflies and monitor their emergence in the early stages.

You can adopt a more natural approach by introducing a natural predator population in your indoor growing environment. Ladybugs, lacewings, dragonflies, parasitic wasps, and praying mantises will devour a wide range of pests while causing no harm to your plants.

Scale Insects

Adult scale bugs are sedentary and have a waxy coating on their bodies, yet they can give birth to tiny crawling bugs.

Armored scales may be scraped off, but you must do so gently with an old ID card or your fingers. Take care not to rip the Calathea Rufibarba leaves.

Use insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil to suffocate scale insects. Spray your plant with a broad insecticide if you spot active crawlers. After a week, repeat the process with a second application. We propose the following products:

Aphids

Aphids are tiny insects that devour the leaves of your Fuzzy Calathea, causing black and brown blotches.

To treat an infestation, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Dish detergent in low concentrations can also eliminate aphids without hurting your plant. Choose a fragrance-free product, such as Ivory Liquid, for example.

Begin by diluting 1 teaspoon of dish soap in 1 gallon of water, gradually increasing the ratio as needed. Spray this solution on your damaged plant, paying specific attention to the undersides of the leaves, where aphids are commonly located.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs can potentially infest your Velvet Calathea. They deposit a white powdery layer on the leaves and excrete honeydew, creating black sooty mold. Mealybug-infested plants will have falling yellow leaves.

Adult mealybugs can be removed with a cotton bud dipped in rubbing alcohol. When they contact something, they usually die, turn orange, and spray the remainder of the leaves with diluted alcohol.

There are root mealies that will bury themselves and feed on the roots. Dehydrate them between waterings by adding Diatomaceous Earth powder to the dirt. When watering, you can also add a few drops of hydrogen peroxide.

Brown Leaf Tips

Browning edges on the leaves of your Furry Feather Calathea can be triggered by many factors. Possible causes are:

  • Lack of humidity.
  • Excessive exposure to bright light.
  • Salt and mineral build-up from chemically-treated tap water.
  • Fertilizer burn.

Drooping Leaves

Drooping Calathea Rufibarba leaves are usually an indication that your plant is thirsty. Once hydrated, your plant will usually perk back up in this situation. It may also assist in raising the humidity.

Take care! Plants infected with pests may initially have droopy and curled leaves, but they will gradually acquire other symptoms such as spots, reduced development, and a general loss in health. If you suspect pests, always check the underside of the leaves.

Yellow Leaves

Several factors can cause the leaves of a Fuzzy Calathea to become yellow. One reason is that it does not receive enough sunlight, and another is that the plant gets too much or too little water.

Yellow leaves should be clipped to foster new growth and prevent degradation from spreading. Besides, they can be unattractive and worrying to look at. Simply trim the leaves off with a sharp, sterile pair of shears.

Root Rot

The most common cause of death for Velvet Calathea is root rot. Overly compacted soil will become waterlogged and eventually damage your plant’s roots. Because this disease is tough to eradicate, prevention is the best option.

To avoid root rot, reduce how often you water your Calathea. Before watering your plant, always check if the top 3 inches of soil are dry. If not, your plant will most likely be able to wait a bit longer!

Porosity is a feature of potting material that allows air to travel through and dry the soil while also enabling excess moisture to leave. Clay, baked terracotta, ceramic (unglazed), and concrete can all be used to make porous pots. Make sure that the bottom has drainage holes!

Similar Plants

Calathea, Furry Feather? Here are some other plants that are similar that you should try:

Calathea Ornata: This evergreen perennial is a tropical plant with shiny and colorful stripes across the leaves. It’s popularly called the “Pinstripe Plant” and “Peacock Plant.”

Calathea Makoyana: This tall, slender stemmed plant with intricately designed leaves will steal the show. Add it to your indoor plant collection and wow everyone who sees it.

Calathea Beauty Star: Need we say more? This beauty is truly a star. It sports dark green leaves, silvery stripes, and even a deep purple underside.

Calathea Orbifolia: While this plant may need more TLC, believe us when we say it’s all worth it. This stunning indoor plant has massive leaves with exotic-looking white/silver-green bands. If you are a lover of vast and lovely plants, this one’s for you.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a houseplant with some wow factor, the Calathea Rufibarba is excellent. Just follow the tips we’ve shared above, and you’re on your way to reaching your plant’s full growing potential!

Can’t get enough of Calathea plant guides? Check out these great Two Peas In A Condo possibilities!

Assist us in expanding! This article has affiliate advertisement links, so if you click on one of the links and purchase something we recommend, we will be compensated. However, our judgments are our own, and we do not accept payment for positive ratings.

Calathea Zebrina: You Need These Tips!

Introduction

Calathea Zebrina is a tropical plant with a unique appearance that makes it an excellent choice for indoor gardeners.

In this detailed care guide, we’re diving into the how’s, why’s, and when’s of everything your Calathea Zebrina needs to stay healthy.

Continue reading to learn where you can purchase this Calathea and its unique characteristics and common pitfalls to avoid.

What Is Calathea Zebrina?

The Calathea Zebrina is commonly called Zebra Plant, Goeppertia Zebrina, and G. Zebrina. It is a perennial that is well-known for its striking striped foliage. This tropical plant from the Marantaceae family has light green with dark green stripes and large ovate leaves. The undersides of the leaves, which are often unnoticed as this plant tends to grow horizontally, are purple.

Plants from this family, specifically the Maranta genus, are often referred to as “Prayer Plants” for folding up and down in response to temperature and light. Calatheas have the same nyctinastic movement, but it’s not as pronounced as their Maranta cousins. Hence, they are often referred to as a Prayer Plant as well. And like its cousins, this plant is also quite sensitive.

In the rest of this article, we’ll talk about growing Calathea indoors. This plant can also be grown outside in hardiness zones 11-12.

Origin And Family

The Zebra Plant belongs to the Calathea genus in the Marantaceae family, and it comes from Brazil’s forests. This plant has become popular in recent years, thriving in most households with high humidity.

Where To Buy

Calathea Zebrina plants can be purchased in a nursery or a home improvement store. It’s usually better to buy it on Etsy, where you’ll likely find more affordable options. Etsy frequently provides fantastic deals from plant enthusiasts who cultivate this variety in their homes as a hobby.

Calathea Zebrina was recently renamed Goeppertia Zebrina for taxonomic reasons, but you will find most nurseries and online websites still refer to this plant as Calathea.

Calathea Zebrina has very affordable pricing, starting from $10 for small plants up to $30 for more mature plants.

Calathea Zebrina is available on Etsy

Calathea Zebrina Plant Size

Indoors, the Calathea Zebrina reaches a height of 1 meter and a width of 15+ inches. This Calathea grows at a slow-to-moderate rate and beautifully thrives when placed near an east or west-facing window.

Calathea Zebrina Care Needs

It will grow well if you take good care of your Calathea Zebrina, which has striped leaves. A lot of humidity and soil that stays wet all year long help this plant grow well.

It is crucial to water your Calathea every day. There isn’t any water in the top inch of the soil. Check to make sure the bottom of the pot is entirely wet, which will let the water run down and into the vessel. Putting this plant in a place that gets bright, indirect light will help it grow.

Care Difficulty

The Goeppertia Zebrina is often regarded as moderate to difficult to care for. Keep this plant in the right potting mix and get enough light if you want it to grow well.

Growth Rate

The G. Zebrina plant measures 1 meter when grown in an indoor environment, and the warm weather of spring and summer helps this plant flourish.

Calathea species grow at a slow-to-moderate speed, including the Zebrina.

Potting

If the soil isn’t too wet, almost anything can grow. This tropical plant can grow in virtually any soil as long as it doesn’t get too wet. For most growers, plastic, terracotta, or clay planters will work best for Zebra Plant.

Most plants need a big pot to grow in. This is true as long as your vessel has drainage holes at the bottom, which means that your plant should be mostly safe from root rot.

Repotting

Calathea Zebrina typically needs to be repotted once every two years, or it dries out quickly between waterings. Remove the plant carefully from its pot, but be careful not to damage the leading root ball. Calatheas are very sensitive and don’t like being disturbed or touched. Then, you can move the plant into a bigger pot. The roots will adapt quicker when planted in the same substrate that it’s used to.

Soil

The Goeppertia Zebrina is a moderate-to-difficult to care for plant that needs standard commercial potting soil to stay healthy. If you plan to prepare your own soil mix, we recommend using parts peat moss and part perlite.

Your Calathea will appreciate the soil being kept evenly moist at all times. Nonetheless, drainage and aeration are essential requirements for all soil types.

Here are some potting mixes we recommend:

Photo Title Price Buy
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting...image Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Grows beautiful Houseplants, 6 qt. (2 Pack) $13.42 ($0.03 / Ounce)
Burpee, 9 Quarts...image Burpee, 9 Quarts | Premium Organic Potting Natural Soil Mix Food Ideal for Container Garden-Vegetable, Flower & Herb Use for Indoor Outdoor Plant $12.99 ($0.04 / Ounce)
Sun Gro Horticulture...image Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control, Brown/A $14.98 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix,...image Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, Potting Soil for Outdoor and Indoor Plants, Enriched with Plant Food, 2 cu. ft. $34.63
FoxFarm Ocean Forest...image FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil Mix Indoor Outdoor for Garden and Plants | Plant Fertilizer | 12 Quarts | The Hydroponic City Stake $23.99 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)

pH

pH for this plant should be around 6.0-6.5, meaning your G. Zebrina likes acidic soil. As long as you keep repotting your plant or add new dirt from time to time, the pH level won’t be as important as if you grow this plant outside.

Water

While most house plants accept all kinds of water, these Calathea plants have specific preferences. They are pretty sensitive to chemicals like fluoride and calcium, compounds found in tap water. If you prefer to use tap water, it is an excellent idea to let it sit overnight for up to 24 hours to allow the chemicals to evaporate. If you have the budget, you can use distilled or filtered water. Rainwater, if available, is another option.

How much water your plant requires is determined by the temperature and humidity in the area where it lives. Generally speaking, your Zebra Plant prefers an evenly moist growing medium.

Make sure not to overwater your Zebra Plant. At this point, your plant needs a drink. Water directly on the soil and take care not to wet the foliage so you can avoid fungal diseases.

Allow the excess water to flow through the bottom of the pot. Remember to empty the collection tray if your plant is sitting in one, as too much water can harm this plant.

Light

Calathea Zebrina prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours per day, like most tropical plants. Remember, you’re trying to recreate the growing conditions in its natural habitat, the forests of Brazil. In most cases, placing this plant near an east or west-facing window works well.

You’ll know your Calathea Zebrina is getting too much light when its patterns fade. On the other hand, if it doesn’t get enough light, it may start to grow slowly and produce leggy stems.

Avoid putting your Calathea Zebrina in direct sunlight, which could severely damage or even kill it.

This plant can also thrive in medium light conditions, so you can place it in any low light spot in your home. It can also tolerate common light conditions or partial shade to a certain degree, but you need to carefully observe if there is enough low light coming in.

Fertilizer

Plants, like people, need more food when they are actively growing because they are using up a lot of their energy. For the Goeppertia Zebrina, this growth spurt usually happens in spring and summer and provides a liquid fertilizer once a month.

You don’t need to fertilize at all in the winter months because plants’ roots usually go dormant in the cold. This means they won’t need extra food for growth.

Photo from Pinterest

Propagating Calathea Zebrina

With the proper propagation method, you can reproduce your Calathea Zebrina. Below are some options to consider and detailed instructions to assist you.

Division

The division technique is a propagation method typically used for plants that have pups shooting out from the roots.

You can divide the stem clusters of your G. Zebrina by following these steps:

1. Dig up. Take the plant out of its container. To see where the plant’s natural divisions are, you should be able to look at the plant.

2. Separate. Separate the sections with your fingers in a very gentle way. You may need to use shears to cut any entangled roots.

3. Repot. Plant each section in new pots filled with the same soil they’re used to.

Humidity And Aeration

This Calathea is a popular plant that prefers 70% or higher high humidity.

If the leaves on your Calathea Zebrina are curling, crispy, and have brown edges, you should get a humidifier to keep them moist. This machine is designed to keep releasing steam and making a room much more humid. Another thing you could do is put water in a pebble tray to help with evaporation. Water evaporation increases humidity levels, which makes your plant more healthy.

Temperature

The ideal temperature for your G. Zebrina is between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit, and this tropical houseplant will appreciate being kept in warm locations.

More importantly, avoid any sudden spikes or drops in temperatures. Don’t use cold or hot water on your G. Zebrina; use room temperature water instead so its roots don’t go into shock.

Flowers

Most plants will typically bloom only when exposed to the natural elements. Nonetheless, your Zebra Plant can still produce insignificant cream flowers most summers.

Non-Toxic

According to the ASPCA, Goeppertia Zebrina is not toxic to children or pets, and it will not harm dogs or cats if ingested. There are also no ingredients in the plant that are harmful to humans. However, it is still advisable to keep this plant away from pets and small children to avoid disturbing it.

Soil Care Specifics
Botanical Name Calathea Zebrina
Common Name Zebra Plant, Goeppertia Zebrina, G. Zebrina
Plant Family Marantaceae
Origin Brazil
Plant Type perennial
Leaf Shape oval
Leaf Color light green with dark green stripes
Recommended Home Placement near an east or west-facing window
Growth Rate slow-to-moderate
Light bright indirect light
Soil standard commercial potting soil
When To Water Water When the top inch of the soil is dry.
When To Fertilize once a month during growing season
Preferred pH 6.0-6.5
Humidity Range 70% or higher
Toxic To Pets? No
Common Pests & Diseases spider mites, brown tips, fungus gnuts, scale insects, yellow leabes, root rot, aphids, mealy bugs, drooping leaves

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

Even with expert care, things can go wrong from time to time. Pests and diseases are unavoidable aspects of gardening, and as a whole, the Calathea Zebrina is not a disease and pest-resistant plant.

Find out how to tell if your plant has a common problem and how you can help it get back to being healthy.

Fungus Gnats

Unfortunately, Zebra Plant is a fungus gnat-magnet. Fungus gnats are tiny insects that consume organic debris found in your growing medium. Their larvae have a horrible habit of devouring roots, detrimental to your plants.

It’s easy to get rid of fungus gnat larvae with hydrogen peroxide because it kills them when they touch it, and it’s also quick and easy. Spray the topsoil of your Zebra Plant with a mixture of four parts water and one part hydrogen peroxide.

Alternatively, you can drench the soil with water that has been mixed with mosquito dunk. Mosquito dunks are dry pellets that contain Bacillus thuringiensis, and Isrealensis is a type of bacteria that kills mosquitoes, fruit flies, and fungus gnats.

Brown Leaf Tips

One common cause of browning edges on your Zebra Plant’s leaves is a build-up of salts and minerals in the soil. This typically happens if you apply too much fertilizer or use chemically-treated tap water.

Another reason for browning leaf tips is the lack of moisture. Water your plant appropriately, and improve your indoor humidity.

Drooping Leaves

If you notice drooping leaves on your Calathea Zebrina, it might be thirsty or need more moisture in the air. Plant leaves will usually remain fresh and perky for a more extended period if you keep a humidifier nearby.

Another cause of downward-curling leaves is overexposure to bright light. Simply move your plant away from the nearest source of light and heat in this case.

Root Rot

Root rot is a significant threat to G. Zebrina. Indoor gardeners tend to over water their plants or forget to provide proper drainage. Rotting roots will appear black and mushy and will lead to the decline and eventual death.

The easiest way to stop root rot is to control how much water your plants get. Prolong the gap between watering schedules, especially when your plant doesn’t receive enough sunlight and wind to dry the soil. Check the bottom of your pot for drainage holes.

Soil aeration is just as crucial in preventing root rot. If your soil tends to become compact and water-logged, add chunky and airy materials such as perlite, pumice, orchid bark, horticultural coal, coco chunks, river sand, and many others.

Similar Plants

The Zebra Plant is one of my favorite plants. Here are some other plants you should try:

Calathea Ornata – A tropical plant with shiny and colorful stripes across the leaves, it is often called the “Pinstripe Plant” and “Peacock Plant.” This plant will liven up your indoor garden or home with its unique visuals.

Calathea Makoyana: This is one of the most stunning indoor plants from the Calathea genus. Definitely, a show-stopper, its tall, slender stem with intricately designed leaves will convince non-plant enthusiasts to get one.

Calathea Beauty Star: Its name alone speaks for itself. This exotic plant (Ornata cultivar) has dark green leaves with silvery stripes and even a purple underside. It’s an ornata cultivar.

Calathea Orbifolia: Known for its massive leaves with stunning white/silver-green bands, this evergreen perennial is a must for plant lovers who like large Calatheas. It requires some TLC, though, but it’s all worth it.

Conclusion

With its striking striped foliage, the Calathea Zebrina grows beautifully indoors.

It’s moderate to difficult to care for. It loves bright indirect light, high humidity, evenly moist soil, and warm temps.

So if you’re looking for a new plant to add to your collection or just getting started as an indoor gardener, follow these steps to grow your own Calathea Zebrina at home!

29 Incredible Calathea Musaica Care Tips You Should Know

Calathea Musaica is a tropical and moderate-to-difficult to care for plant that is sure to spruce up any indoor garden. This houseplant is well-loved in the community of plant collectors because of its distinctive appearance and feel.

In this post, we’re sharing the most important tips and tricks you’ll need to know to successfully raise a Calathea Musaica!

If you want to buy one for yourself, we have a few reasonable options for you to explore. Continue reading to learn more about this Calathea’s interesting attributes.

What Is Calathea Musaica?

The Calathea Musaica has been called Calathea Network, Calathea Bella, and Network Prayer Plant. As a perennial from the Marantaceae family, this plant grows well near an east or west-facing window when grown indoors.

If you choose to keep this plant outdoors, this Calathea will thrive in hardiness zones 10-12.

Plants from the Marantaceae family are called “prayer plants” because of their habit of folding up and down depending on light levels and time of day. This form is known as nyctinasty. Plants have a circadian rhythm in which they raise and drop their leaves at different times of the day as if praying, hence the name.

Origin And Family

From the Calathea genus in the Marantaceae family, the Calathea Network is native to the rainforests of Brazil and South America and produces insignificant small white flowers.

Discovered in 1875 by William Bull and first documented as Maranta Bella, this houseplant makes a great addition to any home.

Where To Buy

Calathea Musaica is a beautiful addition to any garden and we’ve had great success buying one online. You may visit your local nursery first, but if you want to select and buy plants from the comfort of your home, then be sure to check out Etsy.

In recent years, this beautiful plant has been reclassified as Goeppertia Kegeljanii. However, most online stores, forums, and local plant stores still refer to them as Calathea Musaica.

The price tags for a Calathea Musaica are usually very affordable, ranging between $15 for small plants to $40 for more mature ones.

Calathea Musaica available on Etsy

Calathea Musaica Plant Size

The Calathea Musaica as a houseplant reaches a height of 2 feet and a width of 2-3 feet. It typically grows slowly. Place it near an east or west-facing window for optimum plant development.

Calathea Musaica Care Needs

The Calathea Musaica is one of the easiest calatheas to care for, but it does require certain conditions to be met. The Calathea Musaica, with its mosaic-like foliage, loves humidity and needs relatively moist soil to thrive.

Water your Calathea When the top 2-3 inches is dry. As long as your pot has good drainage, don’t be afraid to completely drench the soil during watering schedules so you can properly hydrate the roots. Regarding light requirements, this lovely plant will do best in bright indirect light.

Learn about your plant’s more specific care needs by reading our in-depth care guide below!

Care Difficulty

In terms of care difficulty, the Calathea Bella is moderate-to-difficult to care for. The biggest considerations for this beauty are the well-draining soil and the amount of light.

Growth Rate

The Network Prayer Plant plant measures 2 feet in height when grown in an indoor environment. The warmth of spring and summer jumpstarts this plant’s growth spurt.

Calathea species grow at a slow speed, including the Musaica.

Potting

For potting requirements, you can go for a medium-sized pot made of plastic, terracotta, or clay. An important requirement is that the pot should contain at least one drainage hole. Leaving your Calathea Network in wet soil for extended periods of time could kill your plant.

Repotting

Moving your Calathea Musaica into a bigger pot size allows more space for its roots to expand. You will typically know that it’s time to repot you notice the soil drying out very quickly after watering.

Calathea plants are known to be extra delicate and most don’t like their root systems disturbed. But unlike its diva and dramatic cousins, Musaica is not as sensitive. However, it’s best to still take extra care when you repot this plant.

Typically, you’d want to repot this tropical plant every 2-3 years. It is ideal to replace old nutrient-deficient soil with a fresh batch of standard commercial potting soil when filling up the new pot.

Soil

The Calathea Bella is moderate-to-difficult to care for plant that needs standard commercial potting soil to stay healthy. If you plan to prepare your own potting mix, we recommend that you add in some coco coir, perlite, and peat moss.

Your Calathea will appreciate the soil being kept relatively moist at all times. Nonetheless, drainage and aeration are important requirements for all soil types.

Here are some potting mixes we recommend:

Photo Title Price Buy
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting...image Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Grows beautiful Houseplants, 6 qt. (2 Pack) $13.42 ($0.03 / Ounce)
Burpee, 9 Quarts...image Burpee, 9 Quarts | Premium Organic Potting Natural Soil Mix Food Ideal for Container Garden-Vegetable, Flower & Herb Use for Indoor Outdoor Plant $12.99 ($0.04 / Ounce)
Sun Gro Horticulture...image Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control, Brown/A $14.98 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix,...image Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, Potting Soil for Outdoor and Indoor Plants, Enriched with Plant Food, 2 cu. ft. $34.63
FoxFarm Ocean Forest...image FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil Mix Indoor Outdoor for Garden and Plants | Plant Fertilizer | 12 Quarts | The Hydroponic City Stake $23.99 ($0.06 / Fl Oz)

pH

For the Network Prayer Plant, you’ll need neutral to acidic soil with around 6.0-7.5 pH. In most cases, standard commercial potting soil is close to this pH level, so this shouldn’t be a major concern.

Conduct a pH test to see if your soil has the right acidity. There are affordable pH meters available online or at garden centers.

To raise the pH level of your soil, add calcitic or dolomitic lime, wood ash, or baking soda. To lower it, you can use sulfur or aluminum sulfate.

Water

When watering Calathea Network, you’ll want to aim to keep your soil relatively moist. To gauge moisture, stick a finger into the pot, or invest in a soil moisture meter device. You’ll know it’s time to water your Calathea When the top 2-3 inches is dry.

While most house plants aren’t so choosy about the type of water they drink, this Calathea prefers distilled or filtered water. Its leaves tend to react poorly to minerals and compounds like chlorine and fluoride which are mostly found in tap water. Switch to distilled water or rainwater to water your Calathea Musaica.

Overwatering is one of the most common killers of indoor plants. When in doubt, keep in mind that it’s safer to underwater than overwater the Calathea Network. Also, make sure you have fast-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.

Light

You’ll want to simulate the natural environment of Calathea Musaica, which would be the rainforests of Brazil and South America. Give your Musaica bright indirect sunlight for 6-10 hours each day. You can also place this plant near an east or west-facing window.

You’ll know your Calathea Musaica is getting too much light when its leaves may show signs of discoloration. On the contrary, if this plant doesn’t get enough light, new leaves may not be as patterned as older ones.

This plant can tolerate medium light conditions so you can also place it in any low-light spot indoors. Avoid putting your Calathea Musaica in direct sunlight, as this could severely damage or even kill it.

An interesting and unique thing about this intricately-patterned plant is how amazing it looks when light is shone through its leaves. If you would hold your plant up to the light (not directly of course!) and look at the underside of its leaves, you will find the mosaic or “network” leaf pattern in its full glory.

Fertilizer

The Calathea Bella’s growing season is in the spring and summer. During this time, fertilize your plant every 4-6 weeks using a balanced water-soluble fertilizer.

In the colder seasons, when this plant’s development naturally slows, you don’t need to fertilize at all.

Propagating Calathea Musaica

It is possible to propagate a Calathea Network with the right methods. Here are various techniques for propagating this tropical houseplant.

Division

A Network Prayer Plant can also be propagated by dividing the clusters of stems with entangled root systems.

1. Dig up. Using your small shovel, tap on the sides of the pot to loosen the soil. Gently tug at the plant until it comes out.

2. Separate. You should be able to see the natural boundary of each stem. Separate them using your hands. You may need to cut the roots but be careful not to disrupt the main root balls.

3. Repot. Repot each section in smaller pots filled with the same soil that they’re used to.

Humidity And Aeration

Calathea Musaica is a unique plant that loves high humidity levels. Keep the humidity level between 60%-80% at all times.

Use a simple hygrometer to check the air moisture level in your Calathea Musaica’s area. If the reading is too low, you can improve the humidity through the following methods:

• Plants release moisture from their leaves through the process of transpiration, so they’ll benefit from each other if you keep houseplants closely together.

• Place a pebble tray and water underneath your plant’s pot. The evaporating water provides some nourishment to the plant.

• Purchase a humidifier for your plants. This will constantly release steam and raise the humidity in a room.

Temperature

Generally, warm temperatures are best for your Network Prayer Plant plant. This can range between 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit.

The bigger consideration for this plant is consistency. Sudden changes in temperature can heavily damage the Network Prayer Plant. In cold weather, protect your plant against cold drafts by closing windows and sealing any opening. Keep it away from heat vents that can dry the foliage.

Flowers

The Calathea Musaica can produce insignificant white flowers.

Non-Toxic

The Calathea Bella is non-toxic to humans or animals. According to the ASPCA, ingesting it would not hurt dogs or cats. There are no elements in the plant that are dangerous to humans.

Soil Care Specifics
Botanical Name Calathea Musaica
Common Name Calathea Network, Calathea Bella, Network Prayer Plant
Plant Family Marantaceae
Origin Brazil and South America
Plant Type perennial
Leaf Shape oval
Leaf Color light green and glossy
Recommended Home Placement near an east or west-facing window
Growth Rate slow
Light bright indirect light
Soil standard commercial potting soil
When To Water Water When the top 2-3 inches is dry.
When To Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during growing season
Preferred pH 6.0-7.5
Humidity Range 60%-80%
Toxic To Pets? No
Common Pests & Diseases spider mites, brown tips, fungus gnuts, white flied, scale insects, yellow leabes, root rot, aphids, mealy bugs, drooping leaves

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

Overall, I would say that the Calathea Musaica is not a disease and pest-resistant plant. Here are some quick tips for curing common problems, as well as some general suggestions to keep this plant healthy.

Spider Mites

Unfortunately, spider mites are a widespread problem, particularly for plant collectors with a Network Prayer Plant. You will know your plant has spider mites if there are brown or yellow patches on its leaves, silky webbing in between branches, and leaves that take a long time to unfurl.

To fight a spider mite infestation, bring your infected plant to the sink, the tub, or outdoors and thoroughly wash all the leaves with a strong spray of water. Repeated application of neem oil, horticultural oil, and insecticidal soap can help you get rid of spider mites as well.

Ladybugs, lacewings, and minute pirate bugs can help control your spider mite population if you want a non-chemical approach.

Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnats are small insects that feed on organic matter in the soil. Their larvae will consume roots, which is terrible news for your Calathea Network.

Hydrogen peroxide destroys fungus gnat larvae on contact, making it a quick and easy way to get rid of these pests. Soak your soil in a mixture of four parts water and one part hydrogen peroxide.

Alternatively, put bowls of cider-vinegar mixed with water near your plant to lure adult gnats into drowning. They are also particularly attracted to the color yellow. Attach yellow sticky cards into wooden skewers and stick them into the soil.

White Flies

Whiteflies are grayish-white, triangular bugs that fly around like tiny moths. They can cause significant leaf damage by feeding on the sap of your Calathea Network.

Whiteflies and their eggs can be vacuumed off, but make sure to empty your vacuum bag outside before the bugs get the chance to multiply.

In the event of a serious infestation, spray the leaves with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil. These products will coat the eggs, larvae, and adults, thereby suffocating them. Reapply the chosen treatment as needed.

Scale Insects

Adult scales are sedentary and covered in a waxy coating, but they will give birth to extremely small crawling bugs.

Armored scales can be scraped off, but you will need to do it gently using an old ID card, or with your fingers. Take care not to rip the leaves of your Calathea Musaica.

Use insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil to suffocate scale insects. When you see active crawlers, spray your plant with a general pesticide. Follow it up with a second application after a week. We recommend some products below:

Aphids

Aphids are usually found as a cluster of bugs on your Calathea Bella. They could be colored green, black, red, brown, yellow, orange, or white. They multiply extremely fast and can weaken your plant within a matter of days!

Aphids are particularly attracted to new shoots, flower buds, and areas of fresh growth. They will leave behind unsightly black and white splotches as they feed on the sap.

If you spot these icky crawlers, immediately isolate your infected plant from the others. Give your plant a strong spray of water to dislodge the aphids, but remember to cover the soil with plastic to catch any falling bugs and their eggs. Dispose of the plastic somewhere far away from your garden.

A spray of insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil can take care of the problem, but you may need to repeat this several times until you’re sure that the aphid population has been completely eradicated.

Mealybugs

It’s possible that mealybugs will infest your Network Prayer Plant. If you spot these little parasites with their white fluff, act promptly. A cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol will kill mealies on contact, turning them brown or orange in color. A spray of diluted Neem oil also works well as a preventive measure.

Brown Leaf Tips

Browning edges on the leaves of your Calathea Network can be triggered by many factors. Possible causes are lack of humidity, excessive exposure to bright light, salt and mineral build-up from chemically-treated tap water, and fertilizer burn.

Drooping Leaves

Drooping leaves on the Calathea Musaica can be caused by inconsistent watering, incorrect lighting, and lack of humidity. It might also help to clean your plant’s leaves with plain water and a microfiber cloth to remove the layer of dust that can interfere with photosynthesis.

Yellow Leaves

If you see yellowing leaves on your Calathea Bella, you might need to consider several factors to determine the culprit. Are you watering your plant too little or too much? Is your plant getting enough light? Did you fertilize your plant recently? Are there sudden changes in the weather?

Of course, bottom leaves that turn yellow can also just be an indication that your plant is growing and the leaf’s energy has been spent. In this case, simply pluck off the yellowing leaves so the plant can focus on growing new green leaves.

Root Rot

Root rot is an incredibly common killer of the Network Prayer Plant. Some indoor gardeners might get overzealous with their watering- or they may forget to provide adequate drainage for their plant. These two mistakes are the two main causes of root rot.

Because root rot is difficult to treat, prevention is the best option. If you don’t have a soil meter device, get comfortable with touching your soil to feel for moisture. If the top few inches do not feel dry, skip the watering for later!

Use pots that are high in porosity (such as clay, unglazed ceramic, and concrete) to allow excess moisture to escape from the sides. Give your plant a well-aerated soil mix to let its roots breathe and grow freely.

calathea musaica guide

Conclusion

With its attractive characteristics, Calathea Musaica is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a new houseplant. Your efforts to care for this plant will be rewarded with beautiful exotic flora that you will enjoy having in your home!

Can’t get enough of plant guides? Check out these other options below.

Help us grow! This post contains affiliate links, which means we receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something recommended. All opinions however are our own and we do not accept payments for positive reviews.

19 Must Kow Care Tips For The Calathea Warscewiczii

Calathea Warscewiczii is a tropical and moderate-to-difficult to care for plant that will bring vigor and color to your living space! This plant is a must-have for indoor gardeners with a distinct appearance and feel.

This post will go through the care requirements in detail to help you confidently raise your Calathea Warscewiczii.

We will also provide various options for you to buy one for yourself. Read on to find out more about Calathea’s exciting attributes.

What Is Calathea Warscewiczii?

The Calathea Warscewiczii is sometimes called Jungle Velvet Calathea, Calathea Velvet Touch, and Velvet Calathea. It has light and dark green and oval leaves and is best known for its velvety and two-toned foliage. It’s beautifully unique with its fishtail-type patterned leaves that sport deep maroon and purple undersides.

As a perennial member of the Marantaceae family, this tropical plant thrives well near an east or north-facing window when grown as a houseplant. Plants from this family are often referred to as “Prayer Plants” for their habit of folding up and down in response to temperature and light. However, unlike its other Calathea cousins, the Warscewiczii’s nyctinasty is not as dramatic, but they perform a slow daily dance and rise at night. And like its cousins, this plant is also quite temperamental.

Outdoors, the Calathea Warscewiczii has a high survivability rate in hardiness zones 9-11.

Origin And Family

Calathea Jungle Velvet is part of the Marantaceae family (Calathea genus) and comes from the forests of Central and South America. This plant has become popular in recent years, thriving in most households with high humidity.

Józef Warszewicz Ritter von Rawicz discovered the Jungle Velvet Calathea. It produces small cream flowers mostly during summer.

Where To Buy

You might be able to find a Calathea Warscewiczii plant at your local nursery or home improvement store for very affordable prices. If unavailable, you can also order one online from Etsy.

Calathea Warscewiczii (commonly pronounced vark-zeh-wik-ZEE-eye) was recently renamed Goeppertia Warszewiczii for taxonomic reasons. As the change hasn’t become ubiquitous yet, most nurseries and online websites still refer to this plant as Calathea.

The pricing of Calathea Warscewiczii ranges between $10 for small plants to $50 for larger ones.

Calathea Warscewiczii available on Etsy

Calathea Warscewiczii Plant Size

The Calathea Warscewiczii grows to a height of 3-4 feet and spreads to a width of 3-4 feet. It’s a slow-to-moderate grower that flourishes when placed near an east or north-facing window.

Calathea Warscewiczii Care Needs

Calathea Warscewicziis are plants that love humidity and need soil that stays wet all year long. Summer:

Once the top half-inch of soil dries, water your plant!

Keep pouring until the water comes out of the drainage hole and out of the hole itself.

Empty the catch plate to avoid root rot.

Check out this more detailed guide to care for your Calathea Warscewiczii!

Care Difficulty

Pronouncing its name is not the only difficult thing about the Warscewiczii. In terms of care difficulty, the Calathea Velvet Touch is moderate-to-difficult to care for. A lot of light and well-drained soil is essential for this beauty.

Growth Rate

In the wild, the Velvet Calathea can grow to 3 to 4 feet. Most of the time, you will see faster and bushier growth in the early spring and summer.

Most Calathea species, including the Warscewiczii, grow at a slow-to-moderate rate.

Potting

It is usually acceptable to use a medium container in terms of container size. Most pot materials will work perfectly.

Jungle Velvet Calathea is susceptible to root rot. Ensure there are drainage holes in its pot to release excess water and avoid soggy soil.

Repotting

To keep your plant healthy, you should move it to a bigger pot when it gets bigger. A quick-drying plant will tell you it’s time to move it. If you have to water it more than twice a week, you’ll know it needs to be moved.

On average, Calathea Warscewiczii grows slowly and needs to be repotted every two to three years. As time goes on, the natural nutrients in the soil are lost, so when you repot your plants, you should add some commercial potting soil to the dirt you already have.

Soil

For the Calathea Velvet Touch, a standard commercial potting soil is suitable. Add together components such as peat moss, part perlite, and coco coir to make your own soil mix. Keep in mind that this plant prefers an evenly moist growing medium.

Make sure your chosen soil type accommodates good drainage and aeration so the roots can breathe better.

We recommend the following potting mixes:

pH

pH for this plant should be around 6-7, meaning your Velvet Calathea likes neutral to acidic soil. As long as you keep repotting your plant or add new ground from time to time, the pH level won’t be as important as if you grow this plant outside.

Water

This means that the amount of water your plant needs will depend on the temperature and humidity where it grows. Generally speaking, your Jungle Velvet Calathea prefers an evenly moist growing medium.

Unlike other house plants aren’t, this Calathea prefers distilled or filtered water. Its leaves react poorly to tap water as it is known to contain minerals and compounds like chlorine and fluoride. Switch your Calathea Warscewiczii to distilled water or rainwater. Tap water is not entirely out of the equation. If you prefer to use it, the best way is to let it sit overnight for up to 24 hours to allow the chemicals to evaporate.

Avoid overwatering your Jungle Velvet Calathea. Your plant needs water when the top half-inch of soil is dry, and water directly on the dirt and take care not to wet the foliage so you can avoid fungal diseases.

Allow the water to flow through the bottom of the pot. Remember to empty the collection tray if your plant is sitting in one.

Light

This moderate-to-difficult to care for houseplant prefers bright indirect sunlight for approximately 8-10 hours a day. If there’s excessive light, its leaves will scorch, and if there’s a lack of light, its growth will worsen.

If your Calathea Warscewiczii isn’t getting enough light, you can move it closer to a window or think about LED grow lights if that doesn’t work. Among these items are some that I think you’ll like:

Avoid putting your Calathea Warscewiczii in direct sunlight, as this could severely damage or even kill it. This perennial plant can also tolerate a partial shade to some extent.

Fertilizer

Feed your Calathea Velvet Touch if you want to give it some extra nutrient boost. Do this every month in the spring and summer.

Here are some plant food options you can use:

Photo Title Price Buy
Fiddle Leaf Fig...image Fiddle Leaf Fig Slow-Release Fertilizer by Perfect Plants - Resealable 5oz. Bag - Consistent Nutrient Enrichment - for Indoor and Outdoor Use on All Ficus Varieties $9.95 ($1.99 / Ounce)
Osmocote Smart-Release Plant...image Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor, 8 lb. $31.84 ($0.25 / Ounce)
EcoScraps Slow-Release Fertilizer,...image EcoScraps Slow-Release Fertilizer, Made with Recycled Nutrients and Organic Matter, Covers up to 2,500 sq. ft., 45 lbs. $23.47 ($0.03 / Ounce)
Osmocote 14-14-14 Classic...image Osmocote 14-14-14 Classic Slow Release Fertilizer - 50 Lbs.
Osmocote Fertilizer 15-9-12,...image Osmocote Fertilizer 15-9-12, Slow Release 3-4 Months, 50lbs. Bag $170.44 ($0.21 / Ounce)

Plants don’t need to be fed during the winter.

Propagating Calathea Warscewiczii

There are different ways to propagate a Calathea Warscewiczii. The steps for each unique method are below, and make sure you follow them.

Division

Another way to grow Velvet Calatheas is to split up the clusters of stems with entangled root systems.

1. Dig up. Tap on the sides of the pot with your small shovel to get the soil out of the vessel. Pull the plant until it comes out.

2. Separate. You should be able to see the natural boundary of each stem and separate them using your hands. You may need to cut the roots but be careful not to disrupt the main root balls.

3. Repot. Keep the same soil used for the plants in each new pot.

Humidity And Aeration

Calathea Warscewiczii is a remarkable plant that loves high humidity, like most tropical plants. Keep the humidity level between 70% or higher at all times.

Use a simple hygrometer to check the air moisture level in your Calathea Warscewiczii’s area. If the reading is too low, you can improve the humidity through the following methods:

• Plants release moisture from their leaves through transpiration, so they’ll benefit from each other if you keep houseplants closely together.

• Place a pebble tray and water underneath your plant’s pot. The evaporating water provides some nourishment to the plant.

• Purchase a humidifier for your plants, and this will constantly release steam and raise the humidity in a room.

Temperature

The ideal temperature for your Velvet Calathea is between 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit, and this tropical houseplant will appreciate being kept in warm locations.

More importantly, avoid any sudden spikes or drops in temperatures. Don’t use cold or hot water to water your Velvet Calathea so its roots won’t go into shock.

Flowers

If you can provide the best conditions for your plant and keep it at its happiest, you might be able to see insignificant cream flowers. However, you must know that most plants generally bloom in an outdoor environment.

Non-Toxic

The Calathea Velvet Touch is not hazardous to children or pets. According to the ASPCA, it will not hurt dogs or cats if consumed, and there are no elements in the plant that are toxic to humans.

Soil Care Specifics
Botanical Name Calathea Warscewiczii
Common Name Jungle Velvet Calathea, Calathea Velvet Touch, Velvet Calathea
Plant Family Marantaceae
Origin Central and South America
Plant Type perennial
Leaf Shape oval
Leaf Color light and dark green
Recommended Home Placement near an east or north-facing window
Growth Rate slow-to-moderate
Light bright indirect light
Soil standard commercial potting soil
When To Water Water when the top half inch of the soil is dry.
When To Fertilize once a month during growing season
Preferred pH Tue Jun 07 2022 04:00:00 GMT+0400 (Georgia Standard Time)
Humidity Range 70% or higher
Toxic To Pets? No
Common Pests & Diseases spider mites, brown tips, fungus gnuts, white flied, scale insects, yellow leabes, root rot, aphids, mealy bugs, drooping leaves
Photo from Pinterest

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

In most situations, the Calathea Warscewiczii is a disease-resistant and pest-resistant plant. There are, however, some common problems that can make it not work well. Below, we’re going to talk about some of the most common issues and how to protect your Calathea Warscewiczii.

Spider Mites

In Velvet Calathea, spider mites are an unwelcome but common problem in home plants. Spider mites can damage your plant by making tiny brown or yellow dots on its leaves. When the infestation is severe, you might see small, sticky webs full of red bugs.

To dislodge the spider mites, begin by thoroughly washing off every nook and cranny of your Velvet Calathea. You will need to do this on a sink, tub, or outdoors. If that doesn’t work, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil to suffocate the spider mites.

Spider mites can spread if you have a lot of plants in your home. You might need to quarantine your sick plants while getting rid of them.

Fungus Gnats

People often find these bugs in their Jungle Velvet Calathea. These aptly-named pests will harbor fungal diseases on your plant, and they will also produce larvae that feed on the roots.

Discourage adult gnats from laying their eggs on your plant. Instead of pouring water from above, water your Jungle Velvet Calathea by placing a vast water bowl underneath the pot. Let the jar sit for 10 minutes as the roots take water from below.

If the problem persists, make a solution of 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 4 cups of water. Spray this on the top of the soil to kill any remaining larvae.

White Flies

Whiteflies are closely related to mealybugs, scales, and aphids and can be distinguished as a cloud of white flakes rising into the air when they are disturbed.

Their larvae will feed on the sap of your Jungle Velvet Calathea, causing severe leaf damage. Whiteflies have a moth-like look, a triangular shape, and typically a gray-white color.

For a nasty infestation, use a good soap for killing bugs and other bugs (or make your own by mixing Castile soap and water). Soap will kill the eggs, larvae, and adults. Apply when the day is mildest and repeat as necessary to avoid burn.

Scale Insects

Scales aren’t moving and have a waxy coating, but they will give birth to tiny crawling bugs.

When armored scales are removed, you will need to be very careful. You can use an old ID card or your fingers to scrape them off, and you don’t want to tear the leaves of your Calathea Warscewiczii.

Scale bugs can be killed with insecticide soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil. When you see crawlers moving around, spray your plant with a general pesticide to get rid of them. You should do this for another week and then try again. We have some suggestions for you below:

Aphids

Little bugs called aphids will eat the sap from your Calathea Velvet Touch if you let them. Some aphids crawl, and some have wings, and they can be brown, black, red, green, white, and many other colors and many different kinds.

It’s possible to find aphids on the underside of leaves and on weak stem parts. If you find these bugs (usually in a group), act before they spread to other plants in your home!

Before you do anything else, put a plastic bag over the soil to keep it safe. Then, give your plant a good scrub with soap and water. A sponge is also a good idea because you don’t want to miss any areas when you clean your house. After you wash your plant, put it in a place that isn’t too hot and has a lot of airflow so its leaves don’t get burned by the soap.

If the aphids come back, spray your Calathea Velvet Touch with neem oil, horticultural oil, or rubbing alcohol. Remember to dilute these products first.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs may infest your Velvet Calathea. If you find these tiny parasites– identified by their white “fluff”– you need to respond before they spread.

Make sure that there is some rubbing alcohol on a piece of cotton. Then, you need to do this. Wipe the leaves of your Calathea to remove all the visible mealybugs.

Additionally, you can mix 5mL of neem oil, 500mL of water, and 10 drops of liquid soap (as an emulsifier). Spraying this solution on your plants once a month will make your plant leaves look shiny and clean, but it will also discourage mealies from colonizing your houseplant.

Brown Leaf Tips

Brown leaf tips on your Jungle Velvet Calathea can be caused by low humidity, underwatering, root damage, and soil compactness.

Occasionally, you may need to flush out excess minerals, salts, fertilizers, and chemicals in the soil by letting the water flow through for a few minutes. You shouldn’t worry about accidentally drowning your plant’s roots as long as you have a fast-draining substrate and a pot with drainage holes.

Drooping Leaves

A wilting, droopy appearance on your Calathea Warscewiczii indicates distress. Possible causes of drooping leaves are overwatering, underwatering, excessive light exposure, lack of light, and low humidity.

Yellow Leaves

Several factors can cause the leaves of a Calathea Velvet Touch to become yellow. The plant might not get enough sunlight or get too much or too little water.

Yellow leaves should be cut back to keep them from becoming more yellow. Besides, they can be unattractive and worrying to look at. Trim the leaves off with a sharp pair of shears.

Root Rot

Root rot is a common killer of Velvet Calathea, and the rotting starts at the roots and quickly spreads to the stem and foliage. Remember, you should use only water when the top half-inch of the soil is dry.

It can also be caused by poor drainage in the soil, and this tropical plant needs commercial potting soil that stays evenly moist.

Other things you can do to avoid root rot include:

Drilling holes at the bottom of your pot.

Choosing high-porosity materials such as terracotta and unglazed ceramic planters.

Lengthening the gap between watering schedules.

Similar Plants

Love Jungle Velvet Calathea? Here are some other plants you should try:

Calathea Ornata: There are shiny and colorful stripes on the leaves of Calithophyllum Ornata. This makes it known as the “Pinstripe Plant.” Sometimes, it’s also known as the Zebra plant or Cathedral plant. It’s also called the Peacock plant or Zebra plant.

Calathea Makoyana: This evergreen perennial is one of the most stunning indoor plants available. Its tall, slender stem with intricately designed leaves makes it a show-stopper.

Calathea Beauty Star: This beauty is truly a star. A variety of the ornata cultivar sports stunning dark green leaves, silvery stripes, and even a deep purple underside.

Calathea Orbifolia: This beautiful indoor plant is known for its massive leaves with stunning white/silver-green bands. Double your TLC if you want to grow this plant. But it’s all worth it just to witness this plant thrive.

Conclusion

The Calathea Warscewiczii, with its velvety and two-toned foliage, is the perfect addition to any plant lover’s collection. Taking care of this plant might not be the easiest thing, but its velvety leaves are a real treat.

Calathea Warscewiczii is a great plant to grow indoors, whether you’re just starting out or growing plants for a long time and want to learn more about this one.

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