Calathea

This gorgeous family comprises an array of colours, shapes and sizes. Bold patterns adorn leaves that are round, pointy, scalloped, or ridged in shades of emerald, chartreuse, and aubergine. The Calathea is often mistaken for a prayer plant and although they are from the same Maranta family, they are a different genus within that family.

True prayer plants have a response where the leaves fold up at night. This is the major difference between the two plants, Calathea does not have that reaction.

 how this nature nurtures you 

Calathea improve our indoor climate by removing toxins and purifying the air. A beautiful choice for your bedside, as observing their gentle dance to the circadian rhythm reminds us of nature’s cycles.

 how to nurture your nature 

ORIGIN The Amazon rainforest.

WATER Keep evenly moist, not soggy. Water when top 5cm of soil feels dry.

LIGHT Calathea are happy in low light conditions.

TEMPERATURE Normal room temperatures of 17-24 degrees celsius.

HUMIDITY Think jungle. They adore humidity. Set on a pebble tray, or mist regularly.

TOXICITY Non-toxic to humans and animals.

FERTILIZER Feed every month in the spring and summer with an all purpose fertilizer.  Apply to damp soil so you don't burn the roots.

OTHER NICE-TO-KNOWS Although Calathea are very happy in the shade, their leaves will reach out to light sources. Rotate your plant often to keep it growing evenly. Check out this video on Calathea care: