Collection: Calathea

Calathea Characteristics

The Calathea is an iconic houseplant known for its spectacular leaves. Whether you choose the striped Calathea Zebrina or the peacock-feather-like leaves of the Calathea Makoyana, every leaf is unique. One of its most remarkable characteristics is that the leaves “come to life”: in the evening, they close with a rustling sound, only to open again in the morning at the first light of the sun. This mechanism is controlled by a small “joint” between the leaf and the stem. This beauty is native to the Amazon rainforest, where it grows in the shade of large trees.

Is the Calathea poisonous?

For you as a pet owner, the Calathea is a fantastic choice. The plant is completely non-toxic to both dogs and cats. It’s also a safe plant for families with small children. Although the beautiful leaves aren’t meant to be eaten, you don’t need to worry about harmful substances if a small piece is accidentally nibbled on. So you can confidently place this plant somewhere your four-legged friends can reach it.

Does the Calathea purify the air?

Absolutely! The Calathea is a star when it comes to purifying the air. Thanks to its large leaf surface area, it’s able to absorb significant amounts of harmful substances from the environment and convert them into oxygen. In addition, the Calathea helps regulate humidity levels in your home. Because it evaporates water through its leaves, it creates a healthier indoor environment. This isn’t just good for your other plants, but also for your own health, as it can alleviate symptoms such as dry eyes or a dry throat.

Calathea Placement

Inside your home, the Calathea has specific preferences: plenty of light, but no direct sunlight. Since it grows in the jungle under the canopy, its leaves will quickly get scorched if the sun shines directly on them. A spot in partial shade or a north-facing window is ideal. Also avoid drafty spots or locations right next to a heater, as the air there is too dry. The ideal temperature ranges between 18°C and 23°C. A well-lit bathroom is often a favorite spot because of its naturally higher humidity.

Can the Calathea be kept outdoors in the Netherlands?

Although you might want to show off this plant in your garden, the Calathea is not suitable for outdoor use in the Netherlands. Our temperatures, even in the summer, are often too unpredictable, and the nights are too cool. The Calathea is a true tropical plant that cannot withstand cold or large temperature fluctuations. The plant struggles when temperatures drop below 15°C. So keep it nice and cozy indoors in a controlled environment, where it can thrive year-round without being bothered by Dutch wind or rain.

Calathea Care

The Calathea has a reputation for being a “diva,” but with the right care, it’s not that difficult. The secret lies in humidity. Because it comes from the tropics, it thrives in a humid environment.

• Misting: Mist the leaves regularly (preferably daily) with lime-free water.
• Dust: Keep the leaves clean with a damp cloth so they can absorb light optimally.
• Humidity: If necessary, place the pot on a saucer filled with wet hydro granules to ensure constant evaporation around the plant.

Watering the Calathea

Watering is a crucial part of care. The Calathea’s soil should always remain slightly moist, but should never be soaking wet. In the summer, you’ll typically water it twice a week with small amounts of water; in the winter, once a week is often sufficient. Preferably use rainwater or softened water at room temperature, as the Calathea is sensitive to lime and fluoride in tap water. Check the soil regularly by inserting your finger: does the top 2 centimeters feel dry? Then it’s time to water it again.

Feeding the Calathea

During the growing season (spring and summer), your Calathea can use some extra energy to produce those beautiful leaves. Feed it liquid houseplant fertilizer once every two weeks. Use half the recommended dosage listed on the package, as the roots are quite sensitive. In the fall and winter, growth stops and the plant goes dormant. During this period, you absolutely do not need to fertilize, as unused salts from the fertilizer can damage the roots.

How should you prune a Calathea?

In principle, you don’t need to prune a Calathea to maintain its shape. You prune it purely for maintenance. Old leaves at the base of the plant may turn yellow or brown over time and die off. You can cut these off as close to the ground as possible with clean, sharp scissors. This redirects the plant’s energy back to the new, healthy leaves. Never cut away healthy leaves, as the plant needs them for its energy supply. If necessary, you can carefully trim off any brown edges.

What should you do if your Calathea has limp or brown leaves?

Limp leaves usually mean the plant is too dry; water it a little right away. Brown, dry leaf edges often indicate low humidity. Mist the plant more often or use a humidifier. Are the plant’s leaves turning yellow? Then you’re probably overwatering it, which can lead to root rot. Check the roots: if they’re brown and mushy, reduce watering immediately and, if necessary, repot the plant in fresh, drier soil. Too much direct sunlight can also cause pale or scorched spots.

My Calathea is getting too big; what should I do?

Although a Calathea usually doesn’t grow very tall very quickly, it can become quite wide. If it outgrows its pot or takes up too much space in your home, you can “divide” the plant. This means carefully splitting the plant into two or more sections—each with its own root system—while repotting it. This way, you’ll end up with more compact plants and, as a bonus, a nice gift for a friend. It’s the only effective way to limit the plant’s size.

Calathea Diseases

The most common pest affecting Calatheas is spider mites. These are tiny mites that spin webs on the underside of the leaves. They often appear when the air in your home is too dry. Scale insects or mealybugs may also occur. You can largely prevent this by keeping the humidity high. If you do spot any pests, treat the plant immediately with an organic spray and isolate it from your other houseplants to prevent further spread. Check the undersides of the leaves every time you water the plant.

Calathea Cuttings

You cannot propagate a Calathea from a leaf in water; the only successful method is to propagate by division (splitting). It’s best to do this in the spring. Remove the plant from the pot and carefully remove the soil between the roots. Look for natural divisions in the root ball where multiple stems come together. Gently pull or cut these sections apart, making sure each section has enough roots, and place them in their own pots with fresh potting soil. If desired, cover the new plants with plastic to maintain extra-high humidity.

Repotting Calathea

Repot your Calathea about once every two years into a pot that’s about 20% larger. Always do this in the spring, when the plant has the most energy to recover. Use a well-draining all-purpose potting mix, or add some perlite for extra aeration. Repotting gives the roots room to grow and provides fresh nutrients. Be careful with the delicate roots; the Calathea may be a bit “upset” after repotting and let its leaves droop, but it usually recovers quickly.

Buy a Calathea

Want to buy a Calathea that arrives at your home in top condition? At Plants24, we work closely with growers who specialize in these tropical gems. We select only the strongest plants with the most vibrant patterns. Whether you’re drawn to the deep purple underside of the Calathea Rufibarba or the round leaves of the Orbifolia, you’ve come to the right place. Our plants are carefully packaged and delivered quickly, so they can settle into their new home in your house without any stress.

Frequently Asked Questions About Calathea

Why are my Calathea’s leaves curling up?

Curled leaves are often a sign that the plant is trying to protect itself from drying out. This can be caused by insufficient water, low humidity, or too much direct sunlight. Check the soil and increase humidity by misting the plant.

Does the Calathea really make a sound?

Yes! As the leaves open and close, you can hear a soft rustling sound. This usually happens at dusk and in the early morning. It’s a completely normal and healthy sign that your plant is alive.

What kind of water is best for a Calathea?

Calatheas are sensitive to minerals in tap water. It’s best to use rainwater at room temperature. If you don’t have that, let tap water sit for 24 hours before watering, or use filtered water.

My Calathea is getting brown edges—what am I doing wrong?

This is usually a sign of low humidity or water that’s too hard. Try misting the plant more often and use distilled water or rainwater to see if the new leaves stay a nice green color.