Calathea Plant Care Guide: Types, Tips & Growing Conditions

By Greenways Nursery

Calathea plants are prized for their vibrant foliage, bold patterns, and expressive movements—they raise and lower their leaves from day to night, earning the nickname “prayer plants.” These tropical beauties are excellent for indoor environments but require specific care to thrive.

In this guide, we’ll help you master Calathea plant care and explore some of the most popular varieties available.

🌱 Plant Overview

Fun Fact: Calatheas are known as “living plants” because they move their leaves in response to light—folding them up at night and opening wide during the day. This movement is called nyctinasty.

🌿 How to Care for Calathea Plants

☀️ Light

• Prefers medium to low, indirect light.
• Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade or burn the leaves.

💧 Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
• Water with filtered or rainwater to avoid fluoride and chlorine.
• In Indian summers, water 2–3 times a week. Reduce frequency in winter.

Tip: Brown edges often signal poor water quality or dry air.

🌱 Soil

• Needs a light, well-draining mix.
• Blend garden soil, cocopeat, and compost or perlite.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Thrives in temperatures between 18–30°C.
• Needs high humidity—at least 50% or more.
• Mist regularly or keep near a humidifier.

🪴 Fertilizer

• Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer once every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.

✂️ Pruning

• Trim dead or yellowing leaves near the base.
• Helps promote new and healthy growth.

🚨 Common Problems

• Leaf curling: Low humidity or underwatering.
• Brown edges: Tap water chemicals or dry air.
• Yellow leaves: Overwatering.

Pro Tip: Avoid frequent repositioning—Calatheas are sensitive to change.

🌱 Popular Types of Calathea

1. Calathea Orbifolia

Large, round leaves with striking silver-green stripes. Orbifolia thrives in high humidity and indirect light, making it a stunning statement plant for living rooms or shaded balconies.

2. Calathea Medallion

A true showstopper with deep green leaves, intricate silver designs, and purple undersides. Its wide, rounded foliage resembles a medallion—perfect for tabletops and corners.

3. Calathea Lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant)

Slim, wavy green leaves with dark markings, paired with a rich maroon underside. Its tall, narrow structure is ideal for narrow spaces or grouped displays.

4. Calathea Roseopicta

A dramatic variety with fuchsia-pink midribs and bold leaf outlines. Roseopicta is a favorite among collectors for its vivid contrast and ornamental appeal.

5. Calathea Makoyana (Peacock Plant)

Light green leaves with dark feathered markings that resemble a peacock’s tail. Known for its transparent leaves and delicate appearance, this Calathea thrives in filtered light and high humidity.

🪴 Why Choose Greenways Nursery for Calathea?

Our Calatheas are raised in high-humidity, shaded conditions to mirror their natural habitat. Whether you’re seeking a dramatic focal plant or an easy-care variety, Greenways Nursery offers healthy, lush options.

Buy online at Unlimited Greens and get premium Calathea plants delivered to your doorstep—hand-picked and pre-checked for quality.

❓ FAQ

Q1. Can Calathea survive in low light?
Yes, they prefer indirect or low light settings—perfect for bedrooms or offices.

Q2. Is Calathea safe for pets?
Yes! Calathea is non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Q3. How often should I mist Calathea?
At least 3–4 times a week, or daily in dry weather.

Q4. Why is my Calathea leaf color fading?
Too much sunlight can bleach its patterns. Move it to a shadier spot.

Q5. Do Calatheas flower indoors?
Rarely. They are mostly loved for their stunning foliage.