Introduction
The calathea plant has beautiful foliage and patterns on its leaves that capture our hearts with its graceful leaf movements. Commonly known as a prayer plant, calathea literally comes to life and color indoors by opening up its leaves in the evening. This plant hails from the tropics and prefers warm, moist climates and is commonly used as an ornamental indoor houseplant. From how to care for calathea-plants to some of the most popular calathea varieties, this guide contains everything you need to know about growing and caring for a calathea-plant indoors.
What Is a Calathea Plant?
Calathea are part of the Marantaceae family and are known for their beautiful, patterned leaves. Some plants with deep purple undersides, like the calathea plant, have purple hues too good to ignore. Calathea is known for its striking leaf movement, so it’s no surprise that it has become a symbol of mindfulness and peaceful living spaces.
Calathea-Plant Benefits
There are several benefits to growing a calathea plant in addition to its stunning appearance.
Calathea Plant Benefits
- Improves indoor decor with beautiful plants
- Improves indoor air quality
- Creates a calming, relaxing atmosphere
- Safe for pet-friendly homes
Each stalk from a calathea no cat plant attached to it can whet your nutrient intake. One of its benefits is the low degree of trouble with the calathea-plant toxic to cats issue, if there’s one, compared to, say, hostas or lily plants. The good news: Calatheas are non-toxic, so are safe in homes where pets reside.
Common Types and Varieties of Calathea Plants
There are so many beautiful types of calathea plants, with patterns on their leaves.
Common Calathea Varieties
- Calathea medallion has large leaves that are round and have striking patterns.
- Calathea ornata-pinstripe markings
- Calathea lancifolia-long, wavy leaves
- Calathea roseopicta-striking, painted foliage
These calathea species are popular as houseplants because of their beautiful look.
Calathea Plant Care Guide
Good care of a calathea is vital, as with all houseplants, these plants are prone to changes in their environment.
Light Requirements
Calathea houseplants like light; however, they’re very tolerant of darker spaces. Calathea plants indoors don’t like direct sun, which can fade their colors and damage their leaves.
Watering and Humidity
Water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Calatheas like their soil to be consistently moist with high humidity.
Use filtered or distilled water.
- Spray or use a humidifier.
Temperature Needs
Maintain a temperature range between 65–80°F (18–27°C) while keeping them in warm conditions free from drafts.
How to Save a Dying Calathea
One of the most frequently asked questions is, ” How to revive a dying calathea plant?
Signs of Trouble
- Curling or drooping leaves
- Brown edges or yellow spots
- Dry or soggy soil
Recovery Tips
- Adjust watering habits
- Increase humidity
- Move away from direct sun
Check for pests
A struggling calathea will usually bounce back and grow well again.
Calathea Plant Propagation
Most people propagate a calathea by division instead of cuttings.
Propagation Steps
- Remove the plant from its pot
- Gently separate healthy root clumps
- Replant each piece back into the ground with fresh soil.
- Keep warm and humid.
This is a technique to propagate your calathea-plants successfully without causing damage to the plant.
Calathea Plant Spiritual Meaning
Top Calathea-Plant Spiritual Meaning
The calathea spiritual meaning is one of gratitude, rejuvenation, and balance. Its leaves move daily, a symbol of reflection and intention, ideal for meditation spaces and serene places.
Growing Calathea Plant Indoors
The calathea-plant thrives when provided with stable conditions. Bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms with lower light and higher humidity are best.
Indoor Placement Tips
- Stay clear of heaters and air conditioners
- Combine with other plants to increase humidity
- Rotate occasionally for even growth
Conclusion
The calathea plant is an amazing houseplant that grows in low light intensity and rewards good care with its colorful foliage, along with moving gracefully. From the meaning of calathea care and learning about gorgeous calathea-plant types, such as calathea medallion, to figuring out how to save a dying calathea, this houseplant provides beauty and purpose.
FAQs
Why are calatheas considered to be a very demanding and hard-to-care-for plant?
Calatheas are more fussy than other plants about light, water quality for bottom watering, and humidity.
Is Calathea a good house plant?
Yes, the calathea plant indoors is a great option as it’s beautiful, air purifying, and safe for pets.
What is the meaning of the prayer plant (Calathea)?
The prayer plant gets its name from the phenomenon of leaf movement occurring during the night.
