Calathea Beauty Star

Single plant(3-5 leaves)| Pot Included

The Calathea Beauty Star, scientifically known as Calathea ornata, is a striking tropical houseplant prized for its beautifully patterned leaves.

Here’s a guide to keeping your Calathea Beauty Star thriving:   

Light:

• It prefers bright, indirect light. Think of the light filtered through a sheer curtain.   
• Avoid direct sunlight, especially harsh afternoon sun, as it can scorch the leaves and fade their vibrant colors.   
• East, north, or west-facing windows with filtered light are ideal. Morning sun is usually gentle enough.   
• If the colors on the leaves start to fade, it might be getting too much light.   

Water:

• Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy.   
• Water when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch.   
• Water thoroughly until you see water draining from the bottom of the pot, and then discard any excess water in the saucer.
• Overwatering can lead to root rot. Drooping leaves can be a sign of overwatering.   
• Allowing the soil to dry out too much can lead to brown, curling leaves.   
• Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals in tap water. Use distilled water, rainwater, or let tap water sit out overnight to allow chlorine and fluoride to evaporate. Yellow or brown leaf edges can indicate sensitivity to tap water.   
  

Humidity:

• Calathea ornata thrives in high humidity, mimicking its native rainforest environment.   
• Aim for humidity levels of 50% or higher.   
• Increase humidity by:
  • Regularly misting the leaves with water.
  • Placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the bottom of the pot isn’t sitting directly in the water).   
  • Using a humidifier.   
  • Placing the plant in a naturally humid room like a bathroom or kitchen.   
• Brown, crispy leaf edges often indicate low humidity.   

Temperature:

• Maintain temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C).   
• Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. Keep it away from heating and cooling vents.   
• Do not let the temperature drop below 55°F (13°C).   

Soil:

• Use a well-draining potting mix that can retain some moisture.   
• A mix containing ingredients like peat moss, perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir can be beneficial for drainage and aeration.   

Fertilizer:

• Feed your Calathea Beauty Star monthly during the spring and summer (the growing season) with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength.   
• Do not fertilize during the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.   

Pruning:

• Generally requires minimal pruning.   
• Remove any yellow, brown, or dead leaves to keep the plant healthy and tidy. You can pinch them off or use clean scissors.   

Repotting:

• Calathea Beauty Star is a slow grower and doesn’t need frequent repotting.   
• Repot every 1-2 years or when the roots start to outgrow the pot (you see them emerging from the drainage holes).
• Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one.
• Repot in the spring or early summer.   
• When repotting, inspect the roots for any signs of rot and remove them. Use fresh potting mix.   

Propagation:

• The easiest way to propagate Calathea Beauty Star is through division during repotting.   
• Carefully separate the plant into sections, ensuring each division has its own set of roots and leaves.   
• Pot each division into its own pot with fresh potting mix.   
• Keep the new divisions in a warm, humid spot and water them gently.

Common Issues:

• Brown, crispy leaf edges: Usually due to low humidity or inconsistent watering (letting the soil dry out too much).   
• Yellowing leaves: Can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies.   
• Drooping leaves: May indicate overwatering or underwatering, or even cold temperatures.   
• Faded leaf patterns: Often a sign of too much direct sunlight.   
• Pests: Generally not highly susceptible, but watch out for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Increase humidity and inspect regularly to help prevent infestations. Treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.   
  

By providing the right balance of light, water, humidity, and warmth, your Calathea Beauty Star will reward you with its stunning foliage and add a touch of tropical elegance to your indoor space.