Calathea
Goeppertia insignis
Striking prayer plant relative with elongated leaves featuring a distinctive dark-green feathered pattern on top and rich purple undersides. Leaves curl upward at night and unfurl in the morning. Also known as rattlesnake plant.
Best rooms for calathea
Light requirements
Best near a window with filtered light — avoid harsh direct rays.
Tolerates shade and north-facing windows with limited natural light.
How to care for calathea
Sensitive to chemicals in tap water — use filtered or rainwater if possible. Keep compost moist but never soggy. High humidity is key; brown leaf edges are the first sign of dry air. Avoid direct sunlight which fades the leaf pattern. Feed monthly spring-summer. Minimum 15°C.
Watering
Water when the top 2–3cm of compost feels dry. Roughly weekly.
Propagation
- Division of clumps in spring
Toxicity
This plant is not known to be toxic to cats or dogs.
Common problems
- Crispy brown leaf edges from low humidity
- Fading patterns in direct sun
- Spider mites in dry air
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