Calatheas are a genus of tropical plants native to Central and South America. These plants are known for their striking leaves which feature brightly colored stripes and patches. With proper care, you can expect the plant to grow reasonably fast and reach up to 2 feet in size.
Calatheas display a fascinating phenomenon called nyctinasty. This means
they move their leaves from day to night as a part of their circadian rhythm. They get their
nickname “prayer plant” from this phenomenon because their leaves open during the day and fold up at night like praying hands. The Calathea is known for having ornately patterned leaves that tend to look unnatural or painted on.
Historically, the plant has had practical uses as well. Narrow leaves were used to weave baskets, while wider leaf varieties were utilized as food wrappings.
The Calathea plant thrives in locations that receive low to medium, indirect light.
Low-light replicates the Calathea’s natural tropical environment where canopies create
large shady areas. They need some light in order to fully open their leaves during the day, but keep them out of direct sunlight, which can fade their leaf pattern.
To keep your Calathea happy and healthy, keep its soil moist but not soggy. It should never be in sitting water. If your calathea’s pot has a drip tray, fill it with a layer of pebbles to prevent the drainage holes from soaking up excess water.
The amount of water a Calathea needs will depend on how much sunlight it receives and the temperature of its environment. More light and higher temperatures will require more frequent watering. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant when the top inch or two of the soil becomes dry. Yellowing leaves or a black base are signs of overwatering, while wilting or curling leaves are signs of dehydration.
In order to replicate its tropical homeland, Calatheas need warm to high temperatures
ranging from 60 – 85 degrees fahrenheit. Make sure it is never exposed to temperatures
lower than 59 degrees fahrenheit.
When it comes to humidity, it is almost impossible to have too much. Since they enjoy high humidity, your Calathea would be happy in a bright bathroom. The steam from your shower will provide the humidity it craves. Alternatively, placing your calathea among other plants, in a greenhouse, or near a humidifier will simulate the tropical environment it prefers. Small Calatheas would also thrive in a well-maintained bottle garden or terrarium.
Choose a well-draining potting soil for your Calathea. The potting soil should have
ingredients such as compost, pine bark, worm castings, perlite, and
coco coir. These ingredients provide the perfect balance between moisture and drainage while providing your calathea with the nutrients it needs to grow.
Most calathea varieties are non-toxic to pets and humans, making them an ideal houseplant for people who have young children, cats, or dogs.
We’ve all heard that ZZ plants are the perfect plant for those shadier areas of our homes, but what exactly makes them such resilient houseplants? In this blog, we will explore five characteristics that make the ZZ plant our go-to low-light houseplant.
Explore the fascinating biology behind plant variegation – the natural genetic mutation that results in different colored or patterned areas on leaves and other plant parts.
Discover the benefits and drawbacks of peat moss and coconut coir, two popular soil amendments used for indoor gardening, and learn how to choose the best option for your houseplants and the environment.
Have you ever noticed strange blister-like bumps forming on the leaves of your houseplants? This condition is known as leaf edema, and it can be quite alarming to see your beloved plants affected by it. While leaf edema is generally not a serious condition and does not typically cause permanent damage to the plant, it can be an indication that something is not quite right with its care.
If you’re a plant lover, you probably know that trailing houseplants are a popular choice to add some greenery and dimension to any space. While pothos plants are undoubtedly the reigning champions of trailing houseplants, there are plenty of other options to consider if you’re looking to switch things up.
Last Updated July 2, 2022
Thank you for your purchase. We hope you are happy with your products! However, if you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, you may be able to return it to us for a full refund or store credit. Please see below for more information on our return and exchange policy.
Plants: Plants are eligible for a full refund or exchange with returned within seven (7) days of the purchase date. All returned plants must be in their original nursery pots with tags intact and proof of purchase. Plants may be exchanged for another plant of equal or lesser value. We are not responsible for the death or damage of plants that have been removed from their original pots after purchase.
Non-plant goods: Any non-plant goods (pottery, macrame, plant care products, etc.) can be returned in new, unused condition for a full refund or exchanged for another item of equal or lesser value within fourteen (14) days of purchase. Packaging may be opened, but the product must be unused and returned with all of its original, undamaged packaging.
To return an item, contact us by email at ashley@pollenplant.co.
For Plant returns/exchanges:
For non-plant returns/exchanges:
All return requests will be responded to within 1-2 business days. If the return is appropriate, a pickup date and time will be arranged free of charge.
After we receive your returned item and inspect its condition, we will process your refund or exchange. Refunds will be sent to your original method of payment. Refunds might take 1-2 billing cycles to post to your credit card statement, depending on your bank. We will notify you by email when your return has been processed.
Plants that have been removed from their original nursery pots are not eligible for return or exchange.
Non-plant items that have been used or damaged (including any packaging) are not eligible for return or exchange.
All sales are final on discounted items, and they cannot be returned or exchanged.
Questions
Questions or concerns about our return policy? Please contact us at ashley@pollenplants.co
