Calathea sp.
ka-LAH-thee-uh
Common Names: Prayer Plant, Peacock Plant, Zebra Plant, Rattlesnake Plant, Cathedral Plant, Pin Stripe Plant, Cuban Cigar Plant, Cathedral Windows, Rose-painted Plant.
Family: Marantaceae
Origin: Northwest Brazil
Growth: Clumping
Light: Bright, indirect
Foot Candles: 100 - 200
Water: Keep moist
Humidity: 60%+
Temperature: 16°C - 32°C
Soil: Regular potting soil
Container: Self-watering planter, living wall
Nutrients: Not required
Propagation: Division
Interiorscape Use: Adds colour and interest easily
Common Pests: Mealybugs, Aphids, Spider Mites, Scale, Thrips.
Common Issues: Root rot if sitting in water. Leaves crisp in direct sun or drafts.
Comments: Named prayer plant because at night the plant will fold its leaves upwards in a ‘praying’ motion to conserve moisture. Some species have reddish colours under their leaves, adding to the show of colours. This red is the help the plant trap sunlight, as they naturally grow in the understory of a forest.
Toxicity: Safe.
