CALATHEA ORBIFOLIA PLANT

The Calathea orbifolia, with its strikingly round, silvery-striped leaves, is a beautiful tropical houseplant that requires consistent care to thrive.

Here’s a guide to keeping your Calathea orbifolia happy:

Light

• Bright, indirect light is ideal. Think of the dappled sunlight it would receive on the rainforest floor.
• Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the delicate leaves and cause the vibrant patterns to fade.
• East or north-facing windows are usually good spots. If you have a south or west-facing window, place the plant a few feet away or use sheer curtains to filter the light.
• Insufficient light can lead to loss of variegation, leggy growth, and smaller leaves.

Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. This plant is sensitive to both under and overwatering.
• Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
• Water thoroughly until you see water draining from the bottom of the pot. Make sure to empty any excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot.
• Use distilled water, rainwater, or tap water that has been left to sit out for 24 hours. This helps to reduce the levels of chlorine and other minerals that can cause brown leaf tips.
• Watering frequency will vary depending on the season, light, and humidity levels. You’ll likely water more often in the spring and summer (the growing season) and less in the fall and winter.

Humidity

• High humidity is crucial for Calathea orbifolia, mimicking its native tropical environment. Aim for humidity levels above 50%, ideally 60% or higher.
• Increase humidity by:
  • Using a humidifier.
  • Placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (making sure the bottom of the pot isn’t sitting directly in the water).
  • Grouping plants together, as they create a more humid microclimate.
  • Placing the plant in a naturally humid room like a bathroom (as long as it receives adequate indirect light).
• Avoid misting, as this can sometimes lead to leaf spotting or fungal issues.

Temperature

• Maintain average indoor temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F).
• Avoid drastic temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, which can stress the plant and cause leaf curling. Do not let the temperature drop below 15°C (60°F).

Soil

• Use a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture. A mix containing peat moss or coco coir and perlite is often recommended. African violet mixes can also work well.
• Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the roots.

Fertilizing

• Feed your Calathea orbifolia monthly during the growing season (spring to summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer (about ¼ strength).
• Avoid fertilizing in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.
• Flush the soil a couple of times a year by watering thoroughly until water runs freely from the bottom to prevent salt buildup from fertilizers.

Pruning

• Pruning is mainly for removing any yellow, brown, or damaged leaves to encourage healthy growth and maintain the plant’s appearance. Cut the affected leaves at the base of the stem with clean, sharp scissors.

Cleaning

• Wipe the leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust, which can clog the pores and hinder photosynthesis. Avoid using leaf shine products.

Repotting

• Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound (roots growing out of the drainage holes). Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one, as Calatheas prefer slightly snug conditions. Repot in the spring or early summer.

Common Issues

• Brown leaf edges/tips: Often caused by low humidity or the use of tap water. Increase humidity and switch to distilled or rainwater.
• Curling leaves: Can indicate underwatering, low humidity, or even cold temperatures. Check the soil moisture and increase humidity and temperature if needed.
• Yellow leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Allow the topsoil to dry out before watering again.
• Drooping leaves: Can be a natural occurrence during the day (prayer plant movement) but persistent drooping could indicate underwatering.
• Pests: While generally not heavily prone to pests, watch out for spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

By providing the right balance of light, water, humidity, and warmth, you can enjoy the lush beauty of your Calathea orbifolia for years to come! They can be a bit finicky, but their stunning foliage makes the effort worthwhile.