Care Guide
Calathea
Meet the Calathea
Calathea Plants, native to tropical South and Central America, Africa, and the West Indies, are grown primarily for their beautiful, brightly colored, upright, oval leaves. The various Calathea varieties have leaves with a purple undersides and various vibrant colorful patterns on the top side.
Light
A Calathea Plant likes bright indirect light; so placing it in front of an east, west, or north window is ideal. Too much direct sun burns the leaves of a Calathea Plant and causes the beautiful leaf colors to fade.
Pet Friendly
YES - Pet Safe!
Water
Allow the top 2-3” to dry out before watering. Never let a Calathea Plant sit in water. Calathea Plants are very sensitive to the water you use. Hard water, soft water, fluoridated water, or water of poor quality causes the leaves of a Calathea Plant to turn brown from leaf burn. The best way to water a Calathea Plant is to use distilled water, rainwater, or allow your tap water to sit out overnight before using it. Keep the soil of a Calathea Plant moist but never soggy.
Humidity
Calatheas thrive in high humidity environments, ideally between 50-60%. To maintain humidity, mist the leaves regularly, use a humidifier, or place the plant on a pebble tray with water.
Temperature
Calathea Plants like temperatures between 65°-80° F degrees, and do not like cold drafts or temperatures below 55°-60° F degrees. Hot temperatures cause the leaves of a Calathea Plant to curl.
Difficulty Level
Medium
Common Problems Q&A
Why are my leaves shriveling up and wrinkling?
Although Cacti do not need much water they still need some water. So don't forget to water your plant soon after the soil has completely dried out.
Why are there grey scab-like marks on my plant?
Although this may look worrisome, its most likely nothing to be afraid of! You may have noticed some scabbing on produce like tomatoes & cucumbers. Make sure you are not overwatering your plant and keep it away from any drafts, especially in the winter.
