Common name:
Calathea, Prayer Plant, Peacock Plant, Rattlesnake Plant and others
Botanical name:
Geopperita species, formerly Calathea species
There are about 50 species of Calathea Plants, all with unique characteristics and traits. They are native to Central and South America so you would expect them to prefer hot and humid areas that mimic a tropical forest. They can benefit from frequent misting or a room with a humidifier.
- Light Requirements: They prefer bright but indirect light. Direct sun will cause the leaves to burn and the colors will bleach out.
- Water Requirements: Keep the soil moist but avoid over watering. Calatheas do better with small frequent waterings. Rainwater or distilled water is best because they are sensitive to chlorine and fluoride in tap water.
- Characteristics: Calatheas offer a wide range of leaf shapes and vivid color patterns and variegations. Even the underside of the leaves can provide a pop of color.
- Interesting Facts: These plants have been called prayer plants because of the daily movement of the plant’s leaves, known as nyctinasty. Some plants in this family move their leaves up at night and lower them during the day. Botanists believe this allows the leaves to follow the sun’s movement and maximize the amount of light the leaves absorb.
- Varieties:
- Calathea lancifolia is commonly called rattlesnake plant. The long leaves have wavy edges and purple undersides. The tops of the leaves have alternating dark green blotches.
- Calathea orbifolia features bright green, oblong leaves with subtle silver stripes.
- Calathea leopardina has bright, almost lime green leaves with dark green stripes that start at the midrib and extend almost to the edge of the leaf.
Calatheas purify the air by removing harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) such as benzene and formaldehyde.
Studies show that houseplants like Calathea reduce stress and anxiety and increase productivity!
Calathea are also known by the common names prayer plant, zebra plant, rattlesnake plant, peacock plant
Calathea plants are pet safe and non-toxic to both cats and dogs!
