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Plant Profiles / Calathea
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Calathea
Goeppertia spp. (formerly Calathea) · Peacock plant, rattlesnake plant, zebra plant
Stunning patterned leaves in stripes, feathers and brushstrokes, often with purple undersides. The leaves fold up at night, which is why they're called prayer plants.
Medium indirectLight
Keep lightly moistWater
ChallengingCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Medium indirect
ShadeFull sun
Medium to bright indirect light. Direct sun fades and burns the patterns.
Water
Keep lightly moist
DryWet
Keep soil evenly moist, never soggy or dry. Use rainwater or filtered water if possible.
Humidity
High
LowHigh
Needs 50%+ humidity. Use a humidifier or pebble tray.
Temperature
18–27°C (65–80°F)
CoolWarm
Hates cold draughts. Keep above 15°C (59°F).
Growth
Moderate, clumping
SlowFast
Grows 30–90 cm depending on species.
Soil
Moisture-retentive, airy
LeanRich
Potting mix with perlite and bark.
Fertiliser
Monthly, spring–summer
RarelyOften
Diluted balanced fertiliser in the growing season.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
About this plant
Native to the tropical Americas, calatheas grow on shaded rainforest floors. Most have now been moved to the genus Goeppertia. They're fussy about water quality and humidity, but their foliage is worth the effort.
Best spots
Bathrooms with a window, bedrooms, living rooms with medium light, grouped with other plants.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Goeppertia spp. (formerly Calathea) |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Origin | Tropical Americas |
| Plant type | Evergreen perennial |
| Mature size | 30–90 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Patterned leaves, often purple beneath |
| Flowers | Rarely indoors (except some species) |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Fertilise
Repot / divide
Boost humidity
Active growthFertiliseRepot / divideBoost humidity
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Crispy brown edges | Low humidity or tap water minerals. Increase humidity and use filtered water. |
| Curling leaves | Thirsty or low humidity. |
| Faded patterns | Too much direct light. |
| Yellow lower leaves | Overwatering. |
| Fine webbing | Spider mites. Wipe leaves and increase humidity. |
Common questions
Why do the leaves move?
Calatheas fold their leaves at night and open them in the morning.
Why are the edges brown?
Usually low humidity or minerals in tap water.
Can it grow in low light?
It tolerates medium-low light, but bright indirect gives best colour.
Is it pet safe?
Yes, calatheas are non-toxic.
