Calathea picturata is a species of plant in the family Marantaceae, native to northwest Brazil. It is a clump-forming evergreen perennial growing to 35–40 cm (14–16 in). The leaves are dark green above, purple below, marked heavily with silver along the veins and midriff. It is tender, with a minimum temperature of 16 °C (61 °F) required, and in temperate areas is cultivated indoors as a houseplant.Under the synonym Goeppertia picturata the cultivar 'Argentea', with silver leaves edged in green, has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
Calathea has moderate resistance to disease and can be prone to leaf spot. Its leaves can curl and become dry when humidity is low. The plant is regarded as difficult to care for because it needs high humidity and good ventilation to grow properly. These conditions can be hard to maintain in typical indoor environments. Calathea is suitable for people who can provide high humidity, but even experienced growers may struggle to get it to thrive. Beginners might be able to keep it alive, but it may not perform well.
How to keep Calathea Picturata.
Light
Calathea thrives in full light but also tolerates partial illumination. Coming from areas with plentiful sunshine, proper light considerably benefits its health and growth. Nevertheless, both excessive and inadequate light can harm its well-being.
Temperature
Calathea comes from tropical areas, where the weather is generally warm and humid. Consequently, it is well suited to high temperatures and moisture. It does not tolerate sudden temperature shifts and prefers a steady temperature, so avoiding fluctuations indoors is important. It usually cannot endure cold conditions and needs warmer temperatures for growth. If the surrounding temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.
Fertilizer
Proper fertilization is essential for a Calathea's health and appearance. Fertilize Calathea in the summer, repeating the application monthly throughout the season. Nutrients provide energy for growth and help maintain the plant’s tissues. Regular fertilizing improves Calathea’s flowering, ensuring it produces the best blooms.
Pot & Repot
To repot a Calathea, pick a pot slightly larger than the previous one that provides good drainage. Repot during spring or fall, and use a well-draining potting mix. Plant it at the same depth as before. Thoroughly water the plant after repotting and place it in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Calathea
- Family
- Marantaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-11
- Mature Height
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 40 cm to 76 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Purple, White, Gray, Silver
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White, Purple
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer, Early fall
- Planting Time
- Winter, Spring
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Fall
- Native Area
- Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela
Other names.
