Calathea Network

🌿Plant Care Guide

📝 Description

Calathea is a genus of neotropical rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plants that are known for the unique leaf movements of patterned foliage.Calatheas are also considered pet-friendly plants, making them great plant picks for anyone that shares a space with curious pets.Calatheas are part of the ‘prayer plant’ family, Marantaceae. The prayer plant nickname stems from the daily movements of the plants leaves, known as nyctinasty. Various plants in this family move their leaves up at nighttime and lower them in the daytime in accordance to a circadian rhythm. They move their leaves by changing the water pressure in their pulvini, the swollen nodes at the base of the leaf, along the leaf stalk (petiole). It is believed that these movements are meant to follow the sun’s movement in the sky in order to maximize light absorption.Calatheas thrive in medium to bright indirect light, but can tolerate low indirect light.Water once per week&keep moist.Calatheas prefer higher humidity if possible. Consider incorporating a fine-mist mister or humidifier to boost humidity level indoors.Calatheas prefer a well-draining potting soil or mix. Look for ingredients like compost, pine bark, coco coir, worm castings, and perlite. These provide nutrients and help maintain moisture.