Calathea Care: 2 Species for Beginners

A round-up of 2 Calathea varieties worth growing, with the key care difference between them.

These all belong to Calathea. They share a love of low to bright indirect light; keep it out of hot, direct sun.

The Species

  • Orbifold Calathea (Calathea orbifolia) -- Crisp, stabilised humidity (50%+) stops the edges browning.
  • Peacock Plant (Calathea makoyana) -- The most fussy of the prayer plants -- needs steady warmth and moisture.

Shared Care

  • Light: low to bright indirect light; keep it out of hot, direct sun.
  • Water: let the soil dry fully between drinks.
  • Soil: a gritty, free-draining mix and a pot with a drainage hole.
  • Propagate: mostly with splitting the clump at repotting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which is easiest to start with?

A:

The one whose look you like most -- they are all beginner-friendly.

Q: Can they share a pot?

A:

Yes, if they share the same light and water needs, which these do.

Q: Why are the leaves losing colour?

A:

Usually too little light; move them somewhere brighter.

Collecting a genus is a fun way to learn one plant family deeply. Pair your favourites with the light calculator to place them well.