Calathea are grown for their leaves, which are patterned in a way that looks painted on. They are also non-toxic to pets, which is rare among dramatic foliage plants. They are also genuinely difficult.
What every Calathea wants
- Medium to bright indirect light. Direct sun bleaches the patterning permanently.
- Filtered or distilled water. They are among the most water-sensitive houseplants; tap water causes crispy edges within weeks.
- High humidity, consistently. Below about 60% they decline steadily.
- Soil that never fully dries. Lightly moist at all times, never soggy.
The prayer movement
Calathea raise their leaves at night and lower them during the day, tracking a circadian rhythm. A plant that has stopped moving is usually stressed, most often by light levels or root problems.