How to care for Calathea

How to care for Calathea

Our tips for helping it grow healthy and strong

Calathea sanderiana, also known as the Pinstripe Plant, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to tropical America. At our company, we love it for its elegant, striped leaves, which add an exotic and refined touch to any space. It requires specific care to bring out its full beauty.

The right spot

Calathea prefers bright, indirect light. It’s important to avoid direct sunlight, which could damage its delicate leaves. Place it in a well-lit room, but away from windows where the sun shines directly.

Illustration: place Calathea near a window with indirect light
The right spot for your plant

When and how to water it

In summer, we recommend watering Calathea every 3 days, while in winter, every 7 days is enough. Make sure to water thoroughly, but let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. A good way to check the moisture level is to stick a finger into the soil.

Annual Calathea watering schedule with different frequencies in summer and winter
The watering schedule throughout the year

Temperature and humidity

Calathea thrives in temperatures between 18°C and 24°C, but can tolerate up to 30°C. It’s essential to maintain a high humidity level of at least 60% to prevent the leaves from drying out.

Thermometer showing the ideal temperature range and humidity level for Calathea
Comfortable temperature and humidity

The right fertilizer

During the growing season, in spring and summer, fertilize your Calathea every 30 days with a balanced liquid fertilizer. This will help the plant maintain its vibrancy and grow lushly.

The pot and soil

Use well-draining, humus-rich soil made of peat, perlite, and bark. This mix will ensure good drainage and nourishment. Repot the plant when necessary, preferably in spring, to give it enough room to grow.

How to propagate it

The Calathea can be propagated by division, a moderately easy method that is most effective during repotting in spring. Be sure to carefully separate the roots to avoid damaging them.

Our final tip

The Calathea is a plant that loves attention. Monitor its condition regularly and don't hesitate to move it if you notice signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves. With a little care and dedication, your Calathea will reward you with its unique beauty.

— Giulia's Gardens

Verified care information

This information comes directly from the validated botanical profile used to generate the guide.

Light
medium · Bright indirect light
Watering
Every 3 days in summer · every 7 days in winter · Water thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings · Check the 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
Fertilizing
Balanced liquid fertilizer · spring-summer · every 30 days
Propagation
division · moderate · Division is most effective during repotting in spring