How to care for Calathea
How to care for Calathea
Our tips for helping it grow healthy and strong
Calathea, a member of the Marantaceae family, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to tropical America. At our company, Calathea is prized for its decorative leaves and elegant form. It's an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a touch of exotic greenery to their interiors.
The right spot
Calathea prefers bright, indirect light. It's important to avoid direct sunlight, which could damage its delicate leaves. Place it somewhere with medium to high light to ensure optimal growth.
When and how to water it
Water your Calathea when the soil feels dry to the touch. In summer, you may need to water it every 3 days, while in winter, every 7 days is enough. Check the soil moisture with your finger to make sure it isn't too wet.
Temperature and humidity
Calathea thrives in temperatures between 18°C and 24°C, but can tolerate a range from 15°C to 30°C. It loves high humidity, between 60% and 80%. Maintaining these conditions will help the plant grow lush and healthy.
The right fertilizer
In spring and summer, fertilize your Calathea every 30 days with a balanced liquid fertilizer. This will support its growth and keep its leaves vibrant.
The pot and soil
Use well-drained, humus-rich soil for your Calathea. An ideal mix could include peat, perlite, and bark. Make sure the pot has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
How to propagate it
The Calathea can be propagated by division, a moderately simple method. Spring is the best time to do this, making sure to gently separate the roots to grow new plants.
Our final tip
The Calathea requires a little attention, but its exotic charm will make every bit of care worthwhile. Remember to keep the environment humid and avoid direct sunlight to help it thrive.
— Giulia's Gardens
Verified care information
This information comes directly from the validated botanical profile used to generate the guide.
- Light
- medium-high · Bright indirect light
- Watering
- Every 3 days in summer · every 7 days in winter · Water when the soil is dry to the touch · Check soil moisture with your finger
- Temperature
- 18 °C ideal minimum · 24 °C ideal maximum · 15 °C minimum tolerated · 30 °C maximum tolerated
- Humidity
- high · 60% minimum · 80% maximum
- Fertilizing
- Balanced liquid fertilizer · spring-summer · every 30 days
- Propagation
- division · moderate · Division is most effective in spring