Calathea is widely used for decoration purposes in offices. This plant is a member of the Marantaceae family, a kind of specie from the tropical areas of Africa. They characterize themselves with their wide green leaves which makes them a good accent in a professional place like offices. Their natural habitat is in jungles and they can often be seen at the base of trees.
How to keep Calathea Spp.
Water
It is best to use distilled or purified water to water Calathea plants. Calathea likes their soil to be moist but not soggy because too much water can drown them. Make sure that the plant is watered just enough to be moist and not like it is standing in the water.
Temperature
You can use a store-bought potting mix composed of 40% coconut coir, 25% perlite, and 10% vermicompost. But the recommended for calathea plants would be 20% African Violet potting mix added with 40% perlite and 40% coconut coir.
Fertilizer
Calatheas are in no need of fertilization but they are also found to produce healthier flowers using standard houseplant fertilizer. They need to be fertilized is during their growth and flowering season.
Pruning
Prune your plant occasionally to achieve optimal health. Use a sharp knife or a pair of shears and cut off near the steam and discard cut off leaves. Doing this will promote the growth and production of new leaves in your Calatheas.
Toxicity
This is one of the best indoor plants you could get. It is non-toxic to pets, air-purifying, and unique to look at and feel.
Further reading →
The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.
Botanical profile.
- Genus
- Calathea
- Family
- Marantaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 11-12
Other names.
