Botanical Name - Calathea
Pronunciation - Cal-uh-thee-uh
Common Name - prayer plant
General Description
Calathea is a genus of tropical plants known for their striking foliage patterns
- They are often used as houseplants due to their attractive leaves
- Calathea plants are native to the Americas, primarily found in tropical regions
- They prefer indirect sunlight and high humidity levels
- Calathea plants are known for their ability to move their leaves in response to light changes, giving them a unique and dynamic appearance
- Some popular species of Calathea include Calathea orbifolia, Calathea lancifolia, and Calathea zebrina.
Etymology
The word "Calathea" is derived from the Greek word "kalathos," which means "basket." This likely refers to the shape of the plant's flowers or leaves, which resemble a basket.
Water Requirements
Calathea plants prefer moist, but not waterlogged, soil.
- Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry
- Water less frequently in the winter when growth slows
- Use room temperature water to avoid shock to the plant
- Mist the leaves occasionally to provide humidity and prevent drying out
Sun and Light Requirements
Calathea plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight.
- They should be placed in a location where they receive filtered light or partial shade.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
- Calatheas can also tolerate low light conditions, but their growth may slow down.
The Ideal Growing Conditions For - Calathea plants thrive in warm, humid conditions with indirect sunlight. They prefer temperatures between 65-85°F and humidity levels of 60-70%. It is important to provide well-draining soil and keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Calatheas also benefit from regular misting to keep their foliage humid and prevent leaf browning. Additionally, they prefer to be kept in a location with bright, indirect sunlight and protected from drafts and direct sunlight, which can cause their delicate leaves to burn. Fertilize Calatheas every 2-4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Difference between Calathea and Maranta
Both of these genera stem from the same family and occur wild in similar locations, but visual cues provide the main difference between Calathea and Maranta.
Maranta species are low growing plants with distinct vein and rib markings on the foliage – like the red-veined prayer plant. Calathea leaves are also brightly adorned, almost looking as if patterns were painted on them, as seen with the rattlesnake plant, but they’re NOT the same as prayer plants.
In Maranta plants, the leaves are primarily oval, while Calathea plants come in a wide range of leaf forms – rounded, oval, and even lance shaped, depending upon species.
Culturally, Maranta is more tolerant of cold than Calathea, which will suffer when temperatures fall below 60 degrees F. (16 C.). Both can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9 to 11 but are considered houseplants in other regions.
